Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

Encampments— defined as occupations of outdoor locations by one or more individuals without university consent that involve living accommodations, no matter how temporary, typically involving structures such as tents*—remain prohibited by existing GW policies.

These policies include our Demonstrations Policy, Disruption of University Functions Policy, and Sleeping in Public Areas of University Owned, Controlled or Leased Property Policy.

For example, the university can prohibit an activity, like an encampment, if it disrupts university activities or operations by blocking access to buildings, holding demonstrations loud enough to prevent a nearby class from being heard, or otherwise interfering with the university's education and research programs.

Unlike other expressive activities permitted by GW policy, encampments create safety risks and deprive other university community members of access to GW common spaces. Resources and guidelines for permitted expressive activities can be found on our Free Expression site.

Therefore, in accordance with our existing policies, GW will continue to take appropriate steps to prevent the establishment of any encampments without regard to the content of the message the encampments seek to advance.

*Temporary structures for purposes other than an encampment may be approved upon request on a content-neutral basis.

Please visit Free Expression at GW for questions relating to free speech. GW also has guidelines around academic freedom.

Have other questions you would like answered? Share your thoughts with us.