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Freedom of Expression

Central Wyoming College (CWC) affirms its commitment to intellectual freedom, freedom of speech, and open inquiry as essential elements of higher education. As a public institution, CWC upholds the protections of the First Amendment to the United States Constitution and Article 1, Section 20 of the Wyoming Constitution, which guarantee the right to free expression.

CWC encourages open, respectful discourse and recognizes that exposure to diverse ideas, even those that are controversial or unpopular, is fundamental to the academic experience. The College does not restrict expression based on its content or viewpoint, except in narrow, legally permissible circumstances as outlined below. 

The College may impose reasonable time, place, and manner restrictions on expressive activities, provided such restrictions are: Content-neutral, narrowly tailored to serve a significant institutional interest, and leave open ample alternative channels for expression. 

Expressive activity may be restricted under the following circumstances:

  1. Violation of Law 

    • Expression that violates federal, state, or local law (e.g., incitement to imminent lawless action, obscenity, or unlawful conduct).

  2. Defamation

    • Speech that constitutes defamation under applicable law, including false statements made with actual malice or reckless disregard for the truth in cases involving public figures.

  3. Unlawful Harassment

    • Speech or conduct that constitutes harassment based on a legally protected class and is so severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive that it effectively denies a person equal access to educational opportunities.

  4. True Threats or Intimidation

    • Speech that constitutes a true threat of violence directed at a specific individual or identifiable group.

  5. Material and Substantial Disruption

    • Conduct or expression that materially and substantially disrupts the operations, events, or functions of the College, including obstruction of entrances, walkways, vehicular or pedestrian traffic, classrooms, official ceremonies, or meetings.