October 15, 2004

Texas Tech's 'Free-Speech Zones' Are Unconstitutional, Judge Rules

By SCOTT SMALLWOOD

A federal judge has struck down "free-speech zones" at Texas Tech University, ruling unconstitutional a requirement that students who wish to give speeches must stay within a designated area.

The case was brought by Jason Roberts, a law student who had sought to speak publicly about his view that "homosexuality is a sinful, immoral, and unhealthy lifestyle." He asked administrators for permission to give the speech outside the designated zone -- a 20-foot-wide gazebo that can hold

Print Subscription

Digital Subscription

Already have an account? Log In Now.