The University of Minnesota recognizes that lawful protests are a form of free speech not only protected by the First Amendment but are part of the public discourse of a university. Protests are a vital part of discourse on a public campus, but the expression of free speech must also respect the law and university policies, which the University must uphold.
Over the coming weeks, the University will host numerous commencement ceremonies to recognize thousands of students across its five campuses for their academic achievements.