Comparison of old campus speech codes vs the new ones at my school in Ohio

I went to Ohio State back in 2005 and we had a free speech zone the size of a postage stamp near the student union. You had to register 48 hours ahead to say anything controversial. My nephew just started there and says the new policy lets you talk anywhere on campus but they can still shut you down if a bunch of students complain. From what I've seen, the old rule was at least clear cut even if it was annoying. The new one feels more like they can pick and choose depending on who yells loudest. Has anyone else noticed this shift at their old college?

2 comments

2 Comments

noahjenkins1mo ago

Man I remember those tiny free speech zones... they made you feel real important standing in a 10x10 square with a bullhorn.

leo_kelly1mo ago

Yeah the "10x10 square" part hits home. I once got assigned to one of those and I'm pretty sure it was actually smaller. Like 8x8. Had to keep my elbows in just to hold my sign. Felt like a clown in a tiny car at the circus.