American University President Jonathan Alger and his cabinet stated in an email this morning that the Jan. 25 directives, which banned indoor protests and placed restrictions on postering and tabling, are no longer in effect and will be revised instead.
The University administration held an open forum event with faculty and staff Aug. 8 to discuss updated policies related to expression. Administration revealed that they planned to possibly lift the indoor protest ban, instead proposing time, place and manner restrictions.
According to the email, the decision to lift the Jan. 25 speech directives was a result of research and community discussions between administration, faculty, staff and students over the spring and summer. Alger also stated that administrators used the University’s Freedom of Expression policy and statement of values as a foundation for the discussion to update the policies that manage university operations.
”The January 25, 2024, directives are no longer in effect,” Alger said in the email. “Once the revised policies are completed and in effect, we will continue community engagement and make further updates as appropriate if new questions arise.”
Alger wrote that these revisions will “provide clarity on activities and behaviors that are consistent with our core values and principles” while also supporting students’ wellbeing and expression. The email also mentioned that policies surrounding postering, tabling and chalking are undergoing review and are open for comment online. Comments must be submitted by Aug. 27 to be reviewed. Facilities use and social media policies need additional work and will be posted at a later time, according to the email.
Alger announced a second forum, the first available to students, as part of several feedback sessions the University plans to hold. A later email from the Division of Student Affairs invited students to a Zoom forum on Aug. 19 at 7:30 p.m. Vice Presidents Raymond Ou, Traevena Byrd, Nkenge Friday and Matt Bennett will host the meeting. Students will receive materials in advance of the meeting, and must submit questions by 12 p.m. on Aug. 18.
Alger also wrote that the University also plans on launching several initiatives to promote community engagement with staff and students. Among these initiatives includes a Dialogues Across Differences initiative, which will aim to advance inclusive excellence work and “key values of respectful inquiry, critical thinking, and active listening.”
“The vigorous and effective use of our policies and ensuring accountability for behavior will support the safe and welcoming environment we all want and will contribute to swiftly addressing any concerns or incidents that arise,” Alger wrote.
This article was edited by Tyler Davis and Abigail Turner. Copy editing done by Luna Jinks.
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