Open Expression Observers

The Open Expression Observers Program helps to actualize the policy by recruiting and training staff and faculty volunteers as Open Expression Observers (OEOs). These volunteers attend demonstrations, debates, and high-profile events to help support the rights of all community members to express their views in the ways outlined in the Respect for Open Expression Policy.

Observers focus on helping the expression, dissent, or protest continue while making modifications to ensure no violations continue to occur.

What do Open Expression Observers do?

Open Expression Observers are charged by the vice president and dean for Campus Life to:

• Protect the rights of the community members to express their opinions in non-disruptive ways
• Serve as resources to community members regarding the policy and policy violations
• Act as liaisons between community members and Emory Police and/or university administrators
• Protect the right of community members to pursue their day-to-day activities
• Provide information on how to avoid violating the Policy.

Open Expression Observers are members of the university community who:

• Hold a faculty or staff appointment
• Represent all university units and schools
• Promote the ideals of open expression in the Emory community

Members of the community who are selected as Open Expression Observers must:

• Commit to serving as an Open Expression Observer for two years
• Complete training on the policy.
• Be able to observe meetings, events, and/or dissent/demonstration whenever they may occur (e.g. evenings, weekends, workweek)

The university seeks to have at least one (1) Open Expression Observer for each of Emory’s University's Colleges and Schools (Emory College of Arts and Sciences, Oxford College, School of Medicine, Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Candler School of Theology, School of Law, Roberto C. Goizueta Business School, James T. Laney School of Graduate Studies, and Rollins School of Public Health). Having such an Observer, be it either faculty or staff, will allow for units to both proactively plan and respond to protests and related disruptions.