Additional information about campus posting and chalking policies

On Monday, Feb. 5, flags, banners and chalk were removed from several public locations on campus. A University email notified the community of the removals and shared links to related policies and processes. 

“In our discussions with students, we have heard some questions and confusion,” said Matt Clifford, associate vice president for campus life and dean of students. “We want to say clearly that we affirm the importance of free expression, and we also want to help bring clarity to University policies.”

The flags, banners and chalk were removed by the University because they violated campus posting policies, which the University aims to apply consistently irrespective of content. Wake Forest policies identify where chalking and posting are permitted and not permitted. Important points include: chalking is permitted only on the sidewalk between the Magnolia Court and Benson Center patio; materials should be attached properly (push pins on bulletin boards; tape on stone, concrete, wood); and material should not be posted on sidewalks or iron railings. There is a reservation process for Hearn Plaza and policies for events held there. 

If you have questions about these policies, please reach out to Student Engagement at engagement@wfu.edu or 336-758-7168.

Wake Forest respects free expression and academic freedom as foundational to the mission of higher education and our tradition of constructive and civil discourse and debate. 

“The exchange of ideas, whether passive or active, can be contentious and introduce feelings of confusion and profound disagreement,” Clifford said. “Those interactions can be difficult for us but can lead to changed perspectives, advanced knowledge, and a deeper understanding of our common humanity. Pro Humanitate calls us to create a caring community, but we cannot be for humanity without a desire to know and understand humanity.”

President Susan R. Wente also emphasized the importance of cultivating dialogue and discourse during her fall address to the campus community: “I believe it is our responsibility as a University to create more space for respectful dialogue, learning and discussion; not less.” 

As we seek to be a caring community that fosters robust dialogue, Wake Forest is facilitating ​​Deacon Dialogues: Let’s Talk, a new initiative for students through the Office of Civic & Community Engagement. The first engagement in the series will be Thursday, Feb. 15 (today), and will focus on “Political Polarization.” This event will help students develop skills in understanding complex issues, broadening perspectives, and exploring thoughts and feelings from a place of curiosity rather than judgment. Please register and attend.