Political Activity, Public Advocacy, & Expressive Activity Resources
Students and student organizations may participate in political activities on campus, with some restrictions. We have compiled these guidelines and policies that law student organizations should be aware of before engaging in political activity or public advocacy, including protests, on campus.
Definitions & Guidelines
- Political Activity and Public Advocacy on Campus: Guidelines for Fall 2024 - This guide contains information you need to know for the various roles you may hold on campus as a student, organization leader, or employee.
- Student Organization Resource & Policy Guide: Political Campaigning - This page can help student organizations determine whether they are engaging in political activity and considerations for organizations hosting political events.
- Free Expression at UW-Madison - Provides information regarding the First Amendment on campus, and a succinct list of applicable policies on their Resources, Policies, and Initiatives page, which includes the Expressive Activity Guide.
- UW-6013 Expressive Activity - Official UW policy addressing activities protected by the First Amendment.
Hosting an Event
- Student Organization Resource & Policy Guide: Political Campaigning
- UW-6001: Use of UW Madison Facilities for Political Purposes - You should review this policy if you intend to host a political party or candidate on campus. Please do not rely on candidates or speakers to interpret these policies. If any breach of policy occurs, your RSO may be found responsible and may face disciplinary sanctions from the University.
Posting & Leafleting
Posting and leafleting are sometimes used on campus for partisan (ex: endorsement of a candidate or position) and non-partisan (ex: urging students to vote or to become poll workers) political messaging.
- Posting, Chalking, and Leafleting - Campus wide policies for student organizations
- Law School Student Handbook Section 18.2 - Law School facility posting policy
Protests
Campus guidelines have changed for the Fall 2024 semester. Please review the following resources carefully.
- UW-6013 Expressive Activity - replaces the retired policy UW-6011 Protest Guidelines
- Political Activity and Public Advocacy on Campus: Guidelines for Fall 2024
- Expressive Activity Guide
Further Questions
If you are unsure whether something is considered a political event or activity, please contact one of the following:
- Student Life & Engagement Manager at UW Law School, Carlie Wiseley (carlie.wiseley@wisc.edu)
- Center for Leadership & Involvement (cfli@studentaffairs.wisc.edu)
- Associated Students of Madison (info@asm.wisc.edu)
- UW-Madison Office of Legal Affairs (608.263.7400)
If your organization holds federal tax-exempt status, you may be subject to additional restrictions that are not included in the resources above.