Tufts University Policy on Political Activities

The University is committed to free and open discussion of ideas and opinions. Tufts encourages students, faculty, and staff to exercise their civic rights to participate as individuals in the electoral process. Because the University is a tax-exempt entity, Tufts is prohibited by law to participate in or attempt to influence campaigns for any elective public office. Federal Election Commission regulations also restrict political activity of educational institutions. To comply with these and related legal requirements, the University maintains this Policy with respect to political activities on campus.

With regard to support or opposition to candidates for election to public office, members of the University community are free to express their opinions and engage in political activities in their individual capacities but need to avoid the appearance that they are speaking or acting on behalf of the University.

Guidelines:

• This policy applies only to declared candidates.

• The University is open to viewpoints on a non-partisan basis and suggests that invitations to speak be extended to all rather than selected candidates.

• It should be made clear to the candidate and the campaign that no fundraising may take place during the appearance or other visit to campus.

• Reasonable efforts should be made to ensure that the event does not become a campaign rally, but rather is a speech on a given topic delivered in an academic environment.

• The sponsoring organization should make clear in the introduction of the speaker and in all publicity and notices for the event that the candidate is speaking at the invitation of the organization (not the invitation of Tufts University) and that Tufts University does not endorse political candidates.

• Any expenses associated with the event that are typically not covered by Tufts should be billed to the sponsoring organization so that there is no appearance of sponsorship by the University.

Should you have any questions relating to this policy contact the Dean of Students, General Counsel or Vice President for University Relations.