Public Square: When Free Speech isn’t Free

“Congress shall make no law… abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble” (First Amendment, US Constitution).

According to the Constitution, every American has the right to free speech, but how far does your right extend? Most universities have designated free speech zones, and protesters must give the university advanced notice of their plans to demonstrate on campus so that classes are not disrupted. Is this free speech? Do free speech zones impact your ability as a student to express your opinions?

Join the students, faculty, staff and community members to discuss free speech zones at the Public Square on Tuesday, September 16 at noon on the Glenn Terrell Mall. Students should register for this event on CougSync. Learn more about the Public Square series at cce.wsu.edu/public-square.

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WSU hosts 50th Murrow Symposium on April 6, featuring industry leaders and livestream access

April 3, 2026

Over three days, the symposium will feature keynote speakers, nationally recognized journalists, industry panels, and interactive student experiences.

By Brett Atwood, WSU Murrow College of Communication