Langston University

Langston University values and protects the constitutional right of free speech. Through this, we seek to provide all members of the LU community the broadest possible latitude to speak, write, listen, challenge, and learn. This value is expressed in Dear Langston’s mission and key core values.

MISSION

Grounded in its rich traditions as a Historically Black College and University (HBCU), and a land-grant institution, Langston University offers quality post-secondary education to diverse populations through academic, research, community engagement, extension, and co-curricular experiences that lead to professional competence and degree completion.

KEY CORE VALUES*

• Passion for learning – Our zeal for knowledge, our quest to understand “why” and our desire to develop innovative answers, create a vibrant academic community.
• Courage to have exemplary character – We are building a community in which high ethical and moral standards are maintained and valued by our faculty, staff and students.
• Appreciation of difference – We believe firmly that everyone must be respected; and that there is always more than one way to consider any issue. We value diversity of opinions, ideas, ideals, cultures, and perspectives.
• Social responsibility – We believe that knowledge is a gift which must be used to create a better world.
• Commitment to fundamental human rights – Above all, we value the right of every human being to enjoy freedom, respect and the opportunity to realize his or her potential.

Langston University strives to provide a safe environment for any individual or groups who wish to express their constitutional right to freedom of speech on our campus.

Pursuant to Oklahoma law, all outdoor areas of Langston University’s campuses/locations are generally accessible by the public, and are areas where speech may occur. The University cannot restrict speech based upon viewpoint, including in demonstrations or social media posts. Langston University is a public institution and while the institution protects everyone’s right to freedom of speech, the institution does have the ability and the obligation to reasonably restrict speech in certain areas of campus based on time, place, and manner considerations.

Managing Disagreements

While Langston University is constitutionally obligated to protect free speech, which includes speech that is offensive and biased, it’s important to note this does not mean the university endorses or condones any message by any individual, group, political party or organization. The university understands people are very passionate about their beliefs, values, and identities and sometimes people will say things that are offensive and hateful.

Outlined are some examples of actions that are permitted and not permitted if an individual disagrees with or is offended by another individual’s viewpoint. The list below is intended to serve as an example and should not be thought of as an all-inclusive list.

Permitted

• Listen respectfully
• Host another activity at another location or other time to express your right to free speech
• Have a calm conversation with the individual as long as it does not interfere with their rights
• Remove yourself from the situation by walking away
• Seek guidance on how to respond by calling the Dean of Students / Chief Student Affairs Officer at 405-466-3444

Not Permitted

• Attempt to block a speaker’s entrance into a location
• Stage a protest that would interfere with others’ right to freedom of speech
• Attempt to prevent the communication of the message by another
• Verbally harass the other group
• Engage in physical violence or other unlawful behavior

In compliance with Oklahoma Senate Bill 361 (codified at 70 O.S. § 2120) and the First Amendment, it is unlawful to materially and substantially disrupt another’s right to free speech. According to 70 O.S. § 2120, this is defined as “when a person with the intent to or with knowledge of doing so, significantly hinders another person’s or group’s expressive activity, prevents the communication of the message or prevents the transaction of the business of a lawful meeting, gathering or procession . . . .”

Students alleged of disrupting another person’s free speech will be held accountable for their decisions through the Student Conduct process. View the Langston University Student Code of Conduct.

* View the complete list of Langston University’s Core Values