At Grand Valley State University, we empower learners in their pursuits, professions, and purpose. The university enriches society through excellent teaching, active scholarship, advancement of equity, and public service.

According to Dr. John Ottenhoff, former interim chief operating officer of the Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges (AGB), in the article “In Support of Civil Education” (May, 2019), “Many thoughtful observers are convinced that one of America’s urgent needs today is a continued commitment to the principles of democracy.” In this article, he cites a number of concerning trends which impact the nation and higher education, including “a lack of civic literacy and growing skepticism about democracy as a system and way of life; racism, xenophobia, and other forms of intolerance.”

With these concerns in mind, we in higher education – and particularly here at GVSU - must take to heart our responsibility to educate students for informed and active citizenship. According to Ottenhoff, “we cannot take for granted that democracy will continue to operate and thrive without intentional efforts from each subsequent generation. As leaders of the sector of society that is fundamentally charged with educating citizens, every college and university holds a measure of responsibility for the health of our democracy.”

As we seek to fulfill our mission and our commitment to educating students as citizens, they are sure to be challenged by ideas and experiences that are different from their own, and they will encounter difficult and challenging situations. As we uphold our commitment to the First Amendment and maintain our deep commitment to our values of inclusion and equity, as educators at GVSU, we must seek to equip our students to engage respectfully and productively with a wide variety of ideas and speech.

With all of this in mind, please consider resources below, intended to support students navigate expressive activities on campus.

If you really want lasting change, THINK FIRST!

Forethought, careful planning , systemic responsibility and civic courage MATTER. There are many ways to make change! Some examples include:

• Volunteering, philanthropy, advocacy: Make a difference in your community through giving back.
• Collaborative problem solving: Engage in deliberative dialogue to find solutions to shared problems through campus committees and public boards.
• Governance: Engage with GVSU Student Senate - participate in General Assembly, run for office, represent the GVSU student body. VOTE!
• Civil Disobedience: Start or sign a petition, participate in a march or a protest.

A protest is just ONE way to make change.

If you are considering a protest as one way to make change, first ask yourself some important questions. 

• What is your goal? Will a protest meet those goals? What potential impacts might this action have? Think broadly about impact - on the issue, your ability to address it, the safety of others on campus and beyond, and your own reputation. 
• Who do we need to talk to first? Are there other ways that we could address this issue in order to solve the problem, instead of protesting?
• What campus leaders might be helpful in meeting your goals? What partners might you invite? Are there relationships that might be built? Or damaged as a result?

You’ve thought through all of the potential consequences. You’ve exhausted other options. You’ve talked to all of the right people. You have read and understand the GVSU Grounds and Facility Use Policy. You’re ready to take full responsibility for consequences for your actions. If you still choose to protest, see tips below to do so safely.

How to Protest Safely:

GVSU is committed to freedom of expression and respects the non-threatening voicing of opinions and ideas. The University encourages all who engage in protest activity to protest safely. Below are some suggestions for doing so:

• Thoroughly read and understand the GVSU Grounds and Facility Use Policy before engaging in expressive activity at GVSU.
• Avoid activity that infringes on the rights of others, such as blocking and preventing the movement or access of others.
• Follow the lawful instructions of a police officer or public official, such as staying behind barricades, dispersing from an area declared an unlawful assembly, not resisting arrest. It is against the law to disobey a lawful order by a police officer.
• Leave any area where others are engaging in illegal activities or acts of violence. Your presence may be interpreted as participating in a riot or illegal group action. 
• Staying overnight in a campus building after hours is prohibited.
• Refrain from speech that incites others to commit acts of violence such as pushing, kicking or spitting on others, or other unlawful actions.
• Make informed decisions. If you choose to engage in civil disobedience and get arrested, know the potential consequences. Contact the Office of Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution for more information.
• If you believe your rights have been violated by a police officer or other public official, ask for his/ her/ their name and badge number (if a police officer) and file a complaint after the situation has calmed down or concluded. Formal complaints or charges may be filed with the GVPD. The Student Ombuds office is also available to students for informal complaint resolution. 
• Know your rights: https://www.aclumich.org/en/know-your-rights/know-your-rights-when-you-protest 
• Carry a cell phone, photo ID and a small flashlight in a pocket or purse.
• Wear comfortable shoes with little or no heel. Laces should be double tied to avoid tripping.
• Avoid wearing clothing and accessories that may prove dangerous, such as long jewelry that can become tangled or pulled.
• Try to stay outside of a crowd when walking. Go around, rather than through the crowd. 
• Remember that most demonstrations are peaceful although they can become violent and your appearance can make you a target.  Do not engage groups of people in controversial discussion. 
• If the crowd or anyone in it taunts or insults you, just move on and don’t engage.
• Consider wearing a mask to protect yourself and others. 
• If you anticipate going into a crowd or possibly getting caught up in a crowd, try to bring a “buddy” and don’t go alone.