Student Participation in Institutional Governance
As constituents of the university community, students (individually and collectively) are free to identify and address issues relative to institutional policy and matters of general interest to the student body. The Jackson State Undergraduate Student Government Association represents undergraduate students in institutional governance, whereas the Graduate Student Association represents graduate students. Both undergraduate and graduate students are engaged in the policy formulation process through their respective government associations, and are invited to recommend additional policies for consideration and adoption.

Citizenship
Students at Jackson State University are both private citizens and members of the University community. As U.S. citizens, students enjoy the same freedom of speech, peaceful assembly, and right of petition that other citizens enjoy. As members of the University community they are expected to follow University rules and regulations outlined in the Code of Conduct and in the Student Handbook. Faculty members and administrative officials ensure that institutional powers are not employed to inhibit the intellectual and personal development of students exercising their rights both on and off the campus.

Speech and Expression
Students will be free to discuss questions of interest and to express opinion. Public expression of students or student organizations reflects the views of those making the statement and not necessarily those of the university community. The University retains the right to provide an educational environment that is safe and orderly for students, faculty, and staff.

Freedom of Inquiry
Students and chartered student organizations are free to examine and to discuss all questions. Of interest to them and to express opinions publicly and privately in a responsible way. They are free to support causes by orderly means including any means of peaceful assembly or advocacy which do not infringe upon the rights or freedoms of others.

Guest Speakers
In accordance with the Campus Speakers Policy, chartered student organizations may invite persons of their own choosing for campus appearances. Such invitations must be submitted to the Vice Provost for Student Life for review and approval before arrangements for the campus visit are finalized with the guest. Guest appearances must not interfere with the university’s regular instructional, research, and service activities and programs. Except for ceremonial occasions, invited speakers should be prepared to participate in reasonable public activities. Such public discussions may include classroom visits, attendance at receptions and related functions, media appearances, and participation in community activities, programs and projects.

Invited speakers are accorded the full courtesy and protection appropriate to a university community. Individuals or groups who engage in actions designed to obstruct or in any way to prevent the presentation are subject to discipline, and to financial responsibility, in the event of damage to property or person.

The institutional control of campus facilities and the integrity of the academic environment is not to be used as a device of censorship. Sponsorship of guest speakers does not imply approval or endorsement of the views expressed, either by the sponsoring organization or the institution.