Demonstrations

The right of students, faculty, and staff to express their views is the cornerstone of our academic community. We are committed to free and open debate, and the principle that the right to speak applies equally to everyone, regardless of their viewpoint. Just as every member of our community has this right, they also have a corresponding responsibilities to respect the rights of all members of our community, to honor the College’s policies and codes of conduct, including community respect and inclusivity, and to not interfere with the regular activities of the College or of the community.

To protect the rights of all members of our community, the College prohibits disruptive or non-peaceful actions on the grounds of the College. Non-peaceful actions are those actions that endanger or injure, or threaten to endanger or injure any person or property. Disruptive actions are those in which there is a deliberate disruption of regular activities of the College or the community, including those that restrict free movement on campus.

If College staff members determine that a group's actions are non-peaceful or disruptive, the group will be instructed to discontinue its action. Any individual who remains or subsequently joins in this action may be charged with a violation of this policy.

If College staff members determine that an individual's behavior is non-peaceful or disruptive, whether they are acting individually or as part of a group, that individual will be directed to stop this behavior and may be charged with a violation of this policy.

In an emergency situation, the President or a representative of the President is empowered by the Board of Trustees to take appropriate action against any individual determined to be in violation of this policy, including suspension from the College. Any such action would be temporary, pending disposition of the matter by regular disciplinary processes.

Notes:

This policy covers activities on campus (Carson Hall, Nugent Hall, the 71^st Street Townhouse), in the 55^th Street Residence Hall, and in all properties leased or rented by the College; it also extends to East 71st Street and East 72nd Street between 2nd and 3rd Avenues, East 55th Street between 2nd and 3rd Avenues, and on the same block as the entrance to any property leased or rented by the College.
The spaces outside of MMC's campus buildings, residence halls, and other leased or rented properties are public streets. The New York City police department may send officers to monitor demonstrations in public spaces and to potentially take action to ensure public safety.
MMC security officers are tasked with ensuring the safety of all members of our community. This includes ensuring that community members who are participating in a demonstration adhere to this policy and can do so without interference. It also includes ensuring the safety of members of the community who are not participating in the demonstration, including maintaining their ability to enter and exit campus buildings, residence halls, and leased/rented properties without disruption.