Campus Demonstration Information

All demonstrations must comply with USF campus policies and guidelines. We cannot permit encampments or similar structures on campus grounds, regardless of the cause they are intended to support. Encampments pose significant safety, health, and logistical concerns, and their presence can — and has — disrupted campus operations and activities. These guidelines are designed to ensure that the campus remains a safe, inclusive, and conducive environment for learning, collaboration, and personal growth.

Campus demonstrations and/or protests must be sponsored by a recognized USF community member or group. The sponsoring party is required to notify the assistant vice president of student engagement of plans to demonstrate on campus. This notification is not an attempt to censor or otherwise limit content, but rather to advise organizers on standards for time, place, and manner for gatherings. It is also an opportunity for members of the larger university community to provide support and assistance. 

For the purpose of these guidelines, "demonstration" or "protest" means an event requiring the presence of one or more persons in a university location with the intent to express a particular point of view in a manner that attracts attention, such as rallies, sit-ins, or similar forms of expression. These policies were developed in collaboration with students. Consistent with the Student Conduct Code guidelines that communication will be through the official student assigned email account, USF will review demands or requests from protesters if they are sent from a university-issued email address (either dons.usfca.edu or usfca.edu).

Please review the demonstration policy for details on planning events, including reserving space and posting promotional materials, and how to conduct an event, such as remaining outside of buildings. However, we understand events can be time-sensitive so university staff, including Student Engagement and Events Management, are committed to providing support and flexibility wherever possible to ensure successful events.

Printed Materials and Posting Policies

Printed materials are also covered in the guidelines. These items cannot be forced upon others or distributed in a manner that will obstruct the free flow of traffic. Literature or other printed materials may not be scattered on the ground or left unattended on university property.

The Student Organization Handbook includes additional guidelines related to flyers and posters.

Student Leadership and Engagement (SLE) approves, stamps, and posts. Only SLE staff may post flyers on University Center bulletin boards, unless express permission is given by SLE. Posters are removed after the date of the event as specified on flyers. Any flyer that is expired or posted without a stamp of approval from SLE will be removed.

Doxxing and Unauthorized Recording

As part of our comprehensive efforts to foster a safe environment for all members of our community, we emphasize that doxxing — publishing an individual's personal information or likeness without consent — is a form of intimidation and harassment and is not tolerated. Such online harassment campaigns are counter to our values and threaten the safety of our community members. Disciplinary action will be taken if any member of our community engages in these activities, which are prohibited by our student and employee guidelines and conduct codes.