Student protest is a proud democratic tradition on college campuses, and it can help draw attention to issues that deserve more discussion. But changing government policy through such activism is a daunting challenge that requires patience and sustained, focused effort over the long term. It also requires the support of ordinary citizens.
Students need to understand how their activism can best resonate with and prod more ordinary Americans into supporting it. This will require articulating the kind of essential national policy changes they want that are relevant to ordinary Americans, such as directing war spending to education and health or promoting ethical investments free from militarism and apartheid.
A university can’t impose limitations on your protest just because administrators disagree with your message or point of view, and all viewpoints must be treated equally. However, universities can impose reasonable limitations on protests in public areas of campus open to all students, such as restricting the time and place of the protest and regulating noise levels to protect people’s ability to study or work.
When you take photographs of police or other officials on campus, be aware that law enforcement may request to see them if they believe you are interfering with their duties, so check your school’s policies. You should also be sure to check your local laws regarding photographing and video recording in public buildings.
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