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A crowd sits on the lawn during a Live@Lake Raleigh event on Centennial Campus, with two people standing together in the forefront of the image.

Free Speech

At NC State, freedom of speech and expression are essential to who we are.

Our Community

The open, free exchange and expression of ideas and views are critical to advancing NC State’s mission as a public university. Often seen as vehicles for the open debate of ideas, college campuses must work to create and support environments where free speech thrives.

At NC State, our commitment to our community’s freedom of expression can be seen sprayed across the Free Expression Tunnel — a longstanding destination for gathering, debate and expression. One of only 10 university Hallowed Places, our community has used the tunnel for more than 50 years to tag and memorialize countless moments on its ever-changing walls.

Our bustling campus community remains a hub of action. While the university cannot take a position on social or political matters of the day or ongoing global situations, our student body and engaged faculty and staff are always welcome to use our campus and resources in support of their expression.

Institutional Resources

Whether you want to host a speaker or post signage across campus, we’ve got you covered. Read up on the policies, rules and regulations so that you can have a successful event.

Two student leaders help paint the Free Expression Tunnel during the annual Respect The Pack event.

Use Your Voice

Every member of the Wolfpack is responsible for cultivating a community that encourages learning and mutual respect for all. Together, we can continue to ensure everyone feels equally valued — and welcomed — on our campus.

Our Commitment to Safety

The university’s highest priority is ensuring the safety of each and every member of our Pack. That includes an individual’s right to free expression in an environment where discovery and debate are protected.

Teams across the university collaborate year-round to support our students, faculty and staff as they use our campus for their personal and professional growth. Connect with the various units and departments who can provide you with the resources necessary to effectively and safely express yourself.