Individuals taking political positions for themselves or groups with which they are associated, but not as representatives of the college, should clearly indicate, by words and actions, that their positions are not those of the college and are not being taken in an official capacity on behalf of the college.

During election campaigns, auditoriums or other facilities may be used by the college, or groups affiliated with the college, for public forums provided that all legally qualified candidates for a public office, or for the nomination of a particular party, are invited and given equal access and opportunity to speak.

The college is legally prohibited from endorsing candidates for political office or making any contribution of money, goods, or services to candidates; therefore it is important that no person intentionally or unintentionally cause the college to make such an endorsement or contribution.

Genuine curricular activities aimed at educating students with respect to the political process.

Use of areas associated with social activities for the distribution of information about political activities and campaigns. No political fundraising is allowed on such an occasion.

Use of auditoriums or other facilities by members of the Smith College community for partisan political purposes. If an event includes the invitation of a candidate for political office, and the event will be advertised and open to the public, then all candidates for that office must be invited to participate. In any case the individual or group reserving the facility must pay the usual and normal charge, if any, for use of the facility. No political fundraising is allowed at such an event.

Any and all political activity in support of or opposition to any candidate for elective public office (including giving or receiving funds or endorsements) directly or indirectly using the name of the college is prohibited. Use of college resources for such purposes is also prohibited. When the college’s name appears as part of the name of a student organization, such as “Smith Students for George Washington,” the organization must make clear that the opinions expressed are those of the individuals in the organization and not an official opinion of Smith College or its trustees.

Lobbying or attempting to influence federal, state, or local legislative action or a legislative or administrative official or staff member by using the name of the college may only be authorized by the president or her or his designee. Any lobbying activity, even when authorized, must be conducted in compliance with applicable law. No person may use federally funded contract or grant money received by the college for lobbying activities. Note, however, that individuals may individually attempt to influence the legislative process and use their college title for identification so long as such actions or writings are accompanied by a statement that the person is speaking as an individual and not as a representative of the college. (e.g. “The opinions expressed in this letter are those of the individual(s) signing below and not an official opinion of Smith College or its trustees.”)

College office addresses and e-mail addresses may not be used as a return mailing address for partisan political mailings. College telephones may not be used for partisan political purposes. However, campus residential telephone services may be used for these purposes. College services, such as interdepartmental mail, electronic mail, and mailing lists; equipment, such as duplicating machines, computers, facsimile machines; and supplies may not be used for partisan political purposes. No college employee may, as part of his or her job, be requested to perform tasks in any way related to partisan political purposes.