Free speech is indispensable to our society and is one of UC Berkeley’s most cherished values. It is both part of our legacy as the home of the Free Speech Movement as well as central to our academic mission.
- Open to All Ideas: As a public university, Berkeley protects expression regardless of the viewpoint—even when the ideas being shared are controversial or unpopular.
- Your Right to Speak: Under the U.S. and California Constitutions, you have the right to share your ideas and opinions freely. "Speech" includes all forms of expression, from what you say and write to what you wear, read, or perform.
- Express Yourself: These pages will help you navigate how to share your voice while respecting our community's "time, place, and manner" rules.
- Preventing Harassment and Discrimination: Not all speech is protected, UC policy prohibits harassment and discrimination on the basis of protected identities.
- Engaging in Dialogue and Debate: UC Berkeley supports the notion of a marketplace of ideas. A healthy climate enables vigorous debate while respecting the civil rights of everyone.
A marketplace of ideas
Chancellor Lyons shares some of his thoughts on fostering a healthy climate for vigorous debate and the free exchange of diverse viewpoints on campus.
Aligning on Expectations
Free Speech
Engaging Our Marketplace of Ideas
