Minnesota State University Moorhead
Chalking Policy
Chalking is allowed. Officially recognized MSUM student organizations, departments, individuals (students, faculty or staff) can register to chalk. Chalking is allowed only on the sidewalks in the Mall area and on the main sidewalk from 11th St to 17th St.
No chalking is allowed on any steps or non-sidewalk surface, any building or any other University property except along the above route. All other chalking will be washed immediately at the expense of the individual(s) responsible for the Chalking. No individual or groups external to the University are allowed to chalk. Sponsoring of external groups is not allowed.
Content of Chalking. Approval of the content of chalking is not required. It is expected that all Chalking will be consistent with University policy. Chalking must not include hateful or derogatory messages or symbols. If elements of the Chalking represent a message(s) that violate University policy (e.g. negatively targeting individuals or groups of people with the appearance of intending to inflict physical or psychological harm) the Chalking will be immediately washed by the University at the expense of the individual(s) responsible. Formal action will be taken by the University via the Student Code of Conduct. All chalk must be water based and removed within 1 week of the first day the chalking is visible. Students, student groups, Faculty, and Staff are responsible for removing Chalking and can request to have MSUM Grounds remove the chalking for a charge.
Counter-chalking. The University will not allow Counter-chalking. Counter-chalking is defined as chalking that occurs either directly on original chalking or in proximity to original chalking and represents an opposing viewpoint. The University respects and defends the right of all individuals or groups to express viewpoints and encourages those who oppose chalking messages to express their views through appropriate channels. The University community does not tolerate behavior that discriminates on the basis of race; color; national and ethnic origin; sexual orientation; age; religion; creed; disability; marital status; status with regard to public assistance; membership or activity in state or local commission; and sex in educational policies, programs and services.
Register to Chalk. To register the Chalking Space complete a “Request to Chalk” form (PDF Format) which can be received from Security and be submitted to Security no less than one week before the requested date of chalking. The request will be approved within two working days by Security.
Approved by:
Facilities and Grounds Committee
April, 2002
Reviewed-Nov.4, 2004