An important aspect of the College learning environment is the opportunity to listen to speakers representing a wide variety of opinions and beliefs. The appearance of an invited speaker at the College campus does not constitute an endorsement of the speaker’s views by the College, its students, faculty, administration, or Board of Trustees.
Any recognized College organization, with knowledge of its advisor, may invite speakers to the campus to address their own membership and other interested students, staff, and faculty providing suitable space is available and approved for use by the responsible administrator and there is no interference with the regularly scheduled program of the College. Facility requests will be submitted to campus operations and will be approved pursuant to GHC Operational Policy 516. Activities specifically related to the College’s mission are given priority for use of College facilities. No arrangements shall be made that will interfere with or operate to the detriment of the College programs.
The appearance of such speakers on the campus does not imply advocacy, agreement or disagreement with what may be said; or approval or disapproval of the speakers as individuals. Campus speaker events will follow established administrative procedures. Speakers may be subject to time, manner, and place restrictions.
All members of the academic community will respect the right of others to listen to those who have been invited to speak. Disagreement will be voiced through reasoned debate and discussion as appropriate for a community of higher learning and not by disruptive action.
In case of speakers who are candidates for political office, equal opportunities shall be available to opposing candidates if desired by them. Speakers are subject to the normal considerations for law and order and to the specific limitations imposed by the State Constitution.
No member of the academic community may speak for or act on behalf of the college in a political campaign. Procedures in this policy are designed to create an atmosphere of open exchange and to ensure that the educational objectives of the College are not obscured.