Opinion: Students should be doing more to test the limits of Time, Place, and Manner

When groups like the anti-abortion activists The Survivors are seen on campus, like last week, it can be natural to ask why they are even allowed to be here in the first place. The basic tenet underlying their presence on campus is free speech. But many may not be familiar with Time, Place, and Manner – the set of restrictions and guidelines governing free speech on college campuses. According to systemwide policy, “Individuals and groups may assemble, march, demonstrate, and protest on University Property in Public Areas at all times except outside the posted operating hours for each University,” which in CSUMB’s case runs from 8 a.m to 10 p.m. Time, Place and Manner restrictions by their nature both protect and limit freedom of speech. Groups such as The Survivors test these limits by approaching liberal campuses with controversial topics- like abortion. But they are not the only ones bringing political issues to campus. In the wake of increasing student protests against the genocide in Gaza, the CSU wide TPM policy included new limits against mask wearing and encampments, a direct blow against student protests. CSUMB has repeatedly stressed its commitment to freedom of expression, through Time, Place and Manner. Groups like the survivors should not be the only ones testing that commitment. More protests, and more student action can only contribute to a healthier policy of free speech.