137.4 On-Campus Political Activity

137.4 On-Campus Political Activity

A. Background

Furman University believes in the legitimacy and importance of appropriate political activity by employees (faculty and staff) and campus visitors and acknowledges their right to participate in such endeavors. The university does not take a position on political candidates. Neither does it approve activities by faculty and staff that leave the impression that they are speaking for the university in endorsing political candidates. As a liberal arts college, Furman is committed to freedom of expression. All political candidates are welcome to express their views on campus when invited to participate in programs scheduled by Furman organizations.

B. Policy

Furman University recognizes the rights of all citizens to take part in the political process and to express their opinions freely. However, the university does not endorse political candidates nor approve of activities that leave that impression. Employees and visitors to the campus, like all citizens, should be free to engage in political activities on campus so far as the individual citizen is able to do so without infringing on the rights of others. Individuals are assured freedom from unwanted solicitation by or on behalf of political candidates.

C. Guidelines

1. Many kinds of political activity (e.g., holding part-time office in a political party, seeking election to any office under circumstances that do not require extensive campaigning, or serving by appointment or election in a part-time political office) are consistent with effective service as a member of the faculty and staff. Other kinds of political activity (e.g., intensive campaigning for elective office, serving in a state legislature, or serving a limited term in a full-time position) may require that an individual seek a leave of absence or end employment at Furman.

2. Furman cannot give its support to a political party, candidate or cause. Therefore: (a) No favoritism will be shown to any political cause or group. (b) University symbols, bands, cheerleaders, teams, employees, faculty or staff must not appear in connection with any event on or off campus in any manner which would appear that there is university support for a particular cause or candidate. While an individual may support any candidate or party, the appearance of doing so in an official capacity must be scrupulously avoided. (c) No university resources--mailing lists, copying or printing services, facilities, etc.--can be used in support of a candidate or party.

3. Political parties and candidates may rent Furman facilities for some events, such as dinners and receptions. However, political rallies cannot be held on campus. The university reserves the right to deny its facilities for any purpose that seems inappropriate for an educational institution.

4. Political candidates may speak on campus when invited to do so by Furman officials and organizations. However, they or their supporters may not display posters or banners or hand out campaign literature inside academic or administrative buildings, at athletic events or concerts, or anywhere else on campus.

5. When requests are not covered by this policy, a three-person review committee, consisting of the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean, the Vice President for Marketing and Public Relations, and the Director of Planning and Institutional Research, will determine if the activity requested is permissible.

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