U-M Policies

The University of Michigan is a public institution and thus must comply with relevant state, federal, and constitutional law around political action. It's a good idea to seek guidance to make sure you're aware of your rights and responsibilities as a U-M employee.

All faculty and staff should review University guidelines for political campaign and ballot initiatives and FAQs from General Counsel for more information on those specific activities. 

The following is a general set of considerations, not legal advice. 

As a faculty or staff member, you can do the following within your classroom/program and role:

  • Inform students of the upcoming election

  • Share resources for voter registration

  • Make students aware of which positions and initiatives will be on the ballot, without endorsing a particular candidate or position

  • Encourage students - including international students - to research candidates and ballot measures, and to talk with peers, friends, and family who are eligible to vote

  • Have activities, discussions, and assignments about democratic/civic engagement 

  • Note to your students that people in the United States - both citizens and non-citizens - have constitutional rights to speech and assembly, including on public university campuses.

 

You can also do the following as a private citizen, on your own time (i.e. not in your U-M role, while using U-M resources, or representing U-M):

  • Sign and canvass for ballot measures or petitions

  • Share your views publicly

  • Encourage people in your personal life to vote and share voter information with them

  • Protest and organize with others for issues you care about

  • Discuss and advocate for your views with people in your personal life.

 

For specific questions related to university policy and guidelines, contact: