Students have long been a driving force in social and political movements. Their activism often focuses on issues such as civil rights, climate change, and wars abroad. But it also raises questions about the actions and speech that are protected by the First Amendment — as well as how schools respond when protests move beyond free speech.
Student protesters often take on complex and difficult issues that are difficult for most to grasp. They may use tactics such as sit-ins, occupying spaces on campus, and passing out fliers to draw attention to their cause. They also use rhetoric and symbolism to convey their message, often evoking a sense of optimism about human nature and advocating for the overthrow of an evil system, writes historian Timothy Douglas.
During periods of intense political polarization, it can be even more challenging for students to find common ground and agree on what to protest. That can also affect how effective their protests are.
The recent COVID-19 pandemic and a surge of student activism have pushed colleges to adapt their policies and practices for student protests. For example, some institutions have implemented more rigorous time, place, and manner restrictions on protests in open spaces on campus. Others have banned overnight camping in order to discourage prolonged protests. Meanwhile, the Trump administration has been taking steps to penalize noncitizen students who participate in protests, highlighting the interplay between student activism and immigration policy. The stories of Smith and Joy, as well as other examples from history, illustrate the dynamic landscape of student protest.
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