Rules for Campus Protests and Demonstrations

MIT has established rules for organizing and conducting vigils, protests, and similar demonstrations of any size on the MIT campus.

Contact

For assistance in preparing for demonstrations or other events that may lead to disruption on campus, contact the event managing team at eventsmgmtteam@mit.edu

These “time, place, and manner” rules apply equally regardless of the viewpoint being expressed. They are intended to allow for responsible free expression, to promote the Institute’s academic and scholarly activities, to support the safety of our community, and to ensure the continuous operation of Institute events, programs, education, research, administration, and other activities.

Demonstration Location

The following outdoor locations may be reserved for demonstrations:

  • Stratton Student Center plaza
  • The Stata Amphitheater
  • Kresge Oval
  • McDermott Court
  • West side of Hockfield Court

With proper advance registration and consultation with Institute officials, other common spaces on campus, as well as indoor spaces, may be considered for demonstrations on a case-by-case basis. Demonstrations may never be held in or adjacent to:

  • Classrooms
  • Libraries
  • Residence halls
  • Childcare centers
  • Private faculty or administrative offices
  • Office suites, labs, study rooms, or similar indoor locations devoted to teaching, research, and Institute administration

Rules for Demonstrations

Demonstrations may only be organized or hosted by Departments, Labs, or Centers (DLCs), recognized student organizations, and employee unions (“Institute Groups”). Demonstrations should not disrupt Institute activities and all participants must comply with the law and all MIT policies.

Before planning any demonstration, individuals and groups should consult the full list of rules. Failure to comply with these rules, especially repeat violations, may result in referral to the Committee on Discipline or MIT Human Resources for disciplinary action.