Free Expression at Pittsburg State University
Supporting Free Expression and Civil Dialogue
Pittsburg State University is committed to creating an environment where ideas can be shared, discussed, challenged, and questioned through respectful dialogue. As a public university, Pitt State values the free exchange of ideas and recognizes that open discussion is an essential part of learning, teaching, and innovation.
Members of our campus community may encounter viewpoints that differ from their own. These conversations help strengthen critical thinking, broaden perspectives, and prepare students for success beyond graduation and in a world that varies geographically, culturally, and socially.
The university encourages everyone to engage in civil discourse, respect the rights of others, and contribute to a campus environment where differing viewpoints can be expressed safely and responsibly.
Kansas Board of Regents Statement
Pittsburg State University follows the Kansas Board of Regents Statement on Free Expression, which reaffirms the importance of free inquiry, open discussion and the exchange of ideas at Kansas public universities.
University Policies
University policies help protect the rights of students, faculty, staff and visitors while supporting a safe and orderly campus environment.
Resources
If you have questions about expressive activity, campus policies or available resources, the following offices can help:
Frequently Asked Questions
Did the State of Kansas pass legislation referred to as the Kirk Act?
Yes, House Bill No. 2333 was passed by the legislature on April 9, 2026. The Act seeks to ensure that all public institutions of higher education recognize freedom of speech as a fundamental right for all.
What are some of the provisions within the Kirk Act?
The best way to understand the Kirk Act is to read the language, but here are a couple of matters addressed in the new legislation.
The Legislation defines “Outdoor areas of campus” as the generally accessible outside areas of the campus of a [university] where members of the campus community are commonly allowed. Examples of these areas, include but are not limited to, grassy areas, walkways or other similar common areas. In these outdoor spaces, the campus community may conduct lawful expressive activity (peaceful assembly, protests, speeches, etc.). The University may not create free speech zones for these outdoor spaces. However, the University may still maintain and enforce reasonable time, place and manner restrictions.
The University must provide an annual report to the Kansas Governor. In that report, the University must provide information regarding, but not limited to, compliance with the Act as well as information about reported freedom expression complaints.
What is freedom of expression?
Freedom of expression is not just freedom of speech, but also of free press, freedom of association, and the freedom to assemble and petition the government. The University may restrict speech as long as the restriction is reasonably tailored to time, place or manner restrictions.
Is there any speech that the University would limit?
Freedom of expression is not without limits. There are exceptions to the First Amendment. For example, the University may restrict expression that incites imminent lawless action or communicates a serious intent to commit an act of violence against a person. In addition, the University may reasonably regulate the time, place and manner of expression and it can make sure it does not disrupt classes, operations, or University-sponsored events.
Does the University stop individuals who are expressing hate speech?
The term “hate speech” is generally used to describe speech that is offensive or targets those with differing perspectives. The Supreme Court has repeatedly confirmed that words and other expressions that many people would consider to be “hate speech” are constitutionally protected under the First Amendment. The University understands the hurtful nature of this type of rhetoric and the desire to silence those who use it. However, as a public university, the University is bound by these court rulings and the overarching protection of speech provided in the constitution.
Do Students need to schedule a protest or rally?
No. Students can express themselves in outdoor areas of campus without scheduling or permission.
However, students should understand that the University policy gives priority to previously scheduled events. The policy also disallows activities that would materially and substantially disrupt university teaching, research or administrative core functions.
Within these parameters, students may protest without advance scheduling or approval.
How may I reserve outdoor areas of campus?
Visit the Overman Student Center reservation website for more information.
May my Student Organization advocate for a political candidate or political issue?
Yes, as long as all opinions are clearly identified as the opinions of the organization and are not identified as representing the official position of the University or providing any endorsement of the University.
May I set up a table and fundraise for a state political seat?
No one may fundraise in any campus facilities or on campus grounds for any candidate for political office, party committee or political committee. (KBOR II.E.16.a).
Where do I report a concern regarding perceived threating or harassing conduct pertaining to expressive activity?
Students and employees may report incidents through Maxient.
Visitors, students, and employees may report incidents to the Chief Compliance Officer (compliance@pittstate.edu) or Director of Civil Rights and Title IX Coordinator (civilrights@pittstate.edu).