HU Issues Statement on Hearing

Hampton, VA - A hearing was held at 9 a.m. today at Hampton University.  Seven students were charged with a minor procedural violation involving the posting of unauthorized handbills and failure to register a protest with the University police and the Office of Student Activities.  This was a minor violation and no students were expelled from the University.

The matter was simply an issue of compliance with University policies and procedures. The University certainly permits peaceful protests; however, all policies and procedures must be adhered to by students as stated in the Hampton University Official Student Handbook (2004 Edition). The University recognizes "the role of peaceful, nonviolent, unobtrusive demonstrations on campus to support student petitions to redress of grievance."

In addition, the University's Policy on Distribution or Posting of Unauthorized Handbills, Advertisements and other Materials states "The distribution, posting, affixing with adhesives, staples or other means, of unauthorized handbills or advertisements on University Property is strictly prohibited.”

No students were disciplined for their beliefs. The Hampton University Code of Conduct states, “Each member of the Hampton Family will support equal rights and opportunities for all regardless of age, sex, race, religion, disability, ethnic heritage, socio-economic status, political, social, or other affiliation or disaffiliation, or sexual preference.”

Hampton University has always and continues to be a champion of free speech and free expression.  Hampton University believes in the free flow and sharing of ideas among our faculty, staff and students.