11.3. Outside Public Speakers

Michigan Technological University fosters a spirit of free inquiry and to encourage the timely discussion of a wide variety of issues, provided that the views expressed are stated openly and therefore are subject to critical evaluation. Restraints on free inquiry should be held to that minimum which is consistent with preserving an organized society in which peaceful, democratic means for change are available. Therefore, recognized student organizations are encouraged to invite speakers to the campus subject only to the following provisions:

1. The speaker must not urge the audience to take action which is prohibited by the published rules of the University or which is illegal under federal or Michigan law. Advocating or urging the modification of the government of the United States or of the State of Michigan by violence or sabotage is specifically prohibited. It is the responsibility of the student organization to inform speakers of these prohibitions.
   
   
2. Only such student groups as are registered with the Dean of Students Office as campus organizations under the general criteria for recognition of such groups may invite speakers to campus. A list of such registered student groups shall be published annually.
   
   
3. The sponsoring organizations must make full arrangements in advance for reservation of space using a form provided for this purpose. The form will show, among other things, the time and place of meeting, the names of speakers and the subject of the meeting.
   
   
4. Where the proposed subject is controversial, it is suggested that the technique of fair debate between two or more qualified speakers should be encouraged.