Protect Free Speech on Public University Campuses: Open Outdoor Spaces for Public Expression

We, the undersigned, urge the President of the United States to issue an Executive Order mandating that all outdoor spaces of public colleges and universities—including but not limited to sidewalks, quads, lawns, plazas, and courtyards—be officially recognized as traditional public forums open to all members of the public for peaceful expression, speech, and religious exercise.

Public universities, as arms of the state, have a legal and moral obligation to uphold the First Amendment. Yet, many institutions continue to restrict free expression through the use of “free speech zones,” burdensome permit requirements, or outright prohibitions on expressive activity—especially when that speech is unpopular, political, or religious in nature.

These outdoor spaces are the modern town square. They are the heart of student life and civic dialogue. Limiting access to them undermines the very purpose of public higher education: the free exchange of ideas.

Therefore, we call on the President to issue an Executive Order that:

 1. Requires public colleges and universities to allow all peaceful expressive activity in outdoor areas that are generally open to the public;

 2. Prohibits institutions from restricting access to these areas based on the content, viewpoint, or religious nature of the speech;

 3. Conditions eligibility for federal funding (including grants, contracts, and research funds) on compliance with these protections.

Protecting the Constitution is not optional. Publicly funded institutions must respect the rights of the people they serve. We ask the federal government to uphold this principle and act now.

Protect the Constitution. Uphold free speech. Open our campuses. Charlie Kirk gave his live dedicated to peaceful civil discourse, honor him by signing this petition.

This is the turning point