Election year reminders: Voter registration and political activity verification, free speech guidelines

With Election Day less than three months away, it is a good time for the campus community to think about how they can get involved in the political process.

REGISTER TO VOTE

If you plan to vote in Arkansas this November, you must be registered at least 30 days before Election Day.

In Arkansas, you can register in person or by mail (but NOT online).

• The personal registration deadline for this year is Monday, October 7, 2024.
• If you register by mail, the documents must be postmarked by Monday, October 7, 2024.

But why wait until the last minute? Register as soon as possible.

You can register in person at county clerk's offices, state tax offices, public libraries, voter registration drives, military recruiting offices, and the Arkansas National Guard. Here's a breakdown of registration requirements and details.

For more information about voter registration in Arkansas and/or to confirm your voter registration status, visit the Arkansas Secretary of State website.

Students who wish to register to vote outside of Arkansas can find more information on voter registration in each state here.

POLITICAL ACTIVITIES

The University of Arkansas respects the right of all employees to engage in political activity. However, employees may not involve the name, symbols, property, or resources of the institution in political activities.

For example, University of America employees may not use their titles, emails, letterheads, logos, or other University-related communications for political activities. Nor are they permitted to engage in political activity at any time during work hours or using University-provided equipment, technology, and devices. This applies not only to election campaigns, but also to the dissemination of popular initiatives and referendum petitions and the collection of signatures.

Employees may not display political banners, posters, or literature in University offices or display political bumper stickers or decals on University vehicles. Employees may not solicit or collect political donations during work hours.

University of Arkansas employees are also advised not to wear clothing that identifies them as University employees or to represent their opinions as those of the University of Arkansas when attending political events.

The applicable guidelines can be found at:

See also Ark. Code 7-1-103.

The Fayetteville Policies and Procedures online resource includes all campus and academic policies, as well as links to U of A System and Board of Trustees policies.

Expressive speech on campus

The University respects the right of members of the campus community to engage in peaceful and expressive activities on campus, such as speaking, holding signs, and circulating petitions, consistent with applicable University policies, such as the Policies for the Use of University Facilities and Outdoor Spaces.

For information about the University’s long-term commitment to free speech principles and answers to frequently asked questions, visit freespeech.uark.edu.