Frequently Asked Questions

bill of rights.

“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.” - U.S. Const. Amend. I 

As a public university, UB upholds the principles of the First Amendment and respects this constitutionally protected right. We acknowledge differing viewpoints and do not tolerate repression of expression, even if particular views may be diametrically opposed to those of members of our university or the wider community.

Below are a series of questions and answers related to free speech on campus, the First Amendment, the rights of employees, students, and invited speakers to campus, and University at Buffalo's commitment to safety.

ACLU explains why public universities can't block hate speech.