UB addresses free speech on campus

UB is reminding the campus community about the university’s core values and its position on free speech in anticipation of another academic year of registered student organizations inviting guest speakers whose viewpoints may be considered hurtful or hateful.

In this video, Brian Hamluk, vice president for student life, explains the fine line public universities like UB must walk — both protecting the right to free speech, while at the same time denouncing hurtful rhetoric when it occurs, and upholding the universities' values of diversity, inclusion and mutual respect.

“As a public university bound by the First Amendment, UB simply cannot prohibit speakers from coming to campus based on their speech or opinions, even when that speech may be offensive to members of the UB community or appears to target vulnerable groups,” Hamluk says.

This may seem counter to the supportive, inclusive community that has been built at the university, but the First Amendment is clear, Hamluk explains.

“While UB must uphold the principles of free speech, it does not mean we endorse a speaker’s views,” he says. “Nor does it mean we are indifferent to what is being said.

“While the First Amendment protects the right to say hateful things, that doesn’t mean we condone those hateful messages as a university,” Hamluk says. “UB holds steadfast our values of diversity, inclusion and mutual respect. We are committed to fostering a safe, welcoming environment for all.”

The Division of Student Life and its team of professionals across campus are available to provide resources for students and members of the UB community who feel personally affected by messages conveyed by speakers who visit our campus, Hamluk notes.

In addition to the video, UB community members are encouraged to review these frequently asked questions for more information on the university’s position on free speech and the first amendment.