As this year’s election season unfolds, Metropolitan State
University of Denver has a new tool to help Roadrunners productively advocate on campus.
The new MSU Denver Civic Guide offers a plethora of election and civic-engagement resources, including campus-specific advocacy and engagement information. The tool was developed following calls for clearer information and guidelines from Roadrunners who participated in Listening Sessions and shared input during the spring protests.
The Civic Guide is an easy-to-navigate resource for students and employees that includes:
- Frequently asked questions regarding hate speech and civil discourse, hosting a campus rally or event and how MSU Denver is balancing safety with free expression.
- Info on civic- and community-engagement courses and events.
- Links to key programs and resources such as the Dialogues Program, the MSU Denver Institute for Public Service, the Voter Engagement Student Ambassadors program and more.
- University policies on free expression and inquiry, political activity and lobbying, facilities use and more.
- Auraria Campus policies regarding peaceful assembly, camping, event services and emergency alerts.
- Tips to help educators navigate challenging classroom conversations.
“One of the areas of opportunity that came out of feedback provided last spring was the need for clear and transparent information, and this guide aims to help address that,” said Andrea Smith, associate vice president for Strategic Communication.
Do’s and don’ts for employees
The guide also provides MSU Denver employees, who are also state employees, with the information they need to adhere to state law regarding political activity while at work.
“We want to make sure the laws, policies, guidelines and best practices are at your fingertips so everyone is aware of what types of actions and advocacy are appropriate in their capacity as state employees versus as individuals,” said Smith. “To foster civil discourse and productive advocacy on campus, it’s very important that, as employees, we’re familiar with these.”
For example:
- Employees are not allowed to wear campaign apparel while at work.
- Employees cannot participate in campaign activities while at work or use University resources for political advocacy.
- Roadrunners can’t use any MSU Denver social media accounts or websites to campaign for a candidate or initiative.
- Disruptions to the University mission or others’ experience will be promptly addressed.
At MSU Denver, open dialogue is essential to the educational experience, and our commitment to free expression comes with the responsibility to respect the rights of others.
Watch the Civic Guide for new resources and information throughout the election season.
