Freedom of Expression Resources

Freedom of Expression at Bellevue College 

Bellevue College supports free speech and free expression, which are fundamental to our democracy and core to our educational mission. As a public institution, we are legally required to provide access to campus for First Amendment activities, even when viewpoints expressed do not align with the College’s core values or mission. Our role is to create an environment where ideas—both affirming and challenging—can be shared. However, expressive activities must not disrupt campus operations or create an unsafe environment. 

Policy 

Several policies guide freedom of expression at Bellevue College, including: 

Reporting Concerns 

At Bellevue College, reporting concerns is an important part of building a safe, healthy, and respectful campus culture. We encourage you to share any concern, whether it involves harassment, discrimination, threatening behavior, retaliation, or other misconduct. Reporting options include: 

  • Vice President of Community Care and Institutional Transformation – Dr. Consuelo Grier 

Campus Support 

  • Counseling and Mental Health 
    • Counseling Center (for students) – The Bellevue College counselors are trained mental health professionals and offer services in-person and remotely and in a variety of languages. They also provide drop-in/crisis services for students in emotional distress or who identify as being in imminent harm to themselves or others. These services are available in-person, Monday – Friday 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM. (U202) 
    • Employee Assistance Program (for employees) – The Washington State Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offers confidential counseling and referral services for faculty and staff. The EAP offers 24/7 in-the-moment crisis counseling by phone for individuals in crisis. Please call 877-313-4455 and select option 2 to speak with the on-call counseling service. 
    • 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline – Anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress can dial the hotline at 9-8-8. 
  • CARE Team – This intervention group is dedicated to assisting students who may be experiencing personal or behavioral challenges. Report any bias incidents or hate crimes that occurred within the Bellevue College community. 
  • Public Safety – If you feel unsafe, safety escorts are available to and from your vehicle by request. Contact: (425) 564-2400 during regular business hours and (425) 466-9365 24/7. The Public Safety Office is located in B132. 
  • Human Resources  – Bellevue College Campus office responsible for employee relations and other employment related matters. (B131) 
  • Multicultural Services – Multicultural Services provides culturally sensitive support services to Bellevue College students in academic skill building development, faculty and peer mentorship, student advocacy, information sharing, connecting to resources, and community building. These services are available in-person, Monday – Friday, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM. (L Lobby) 
  • Restorative Practices – Bellevue College offers staff and supportive resources for proactive and responsive restorative practices to address instances of harm and support working towards repairing the community. To request training, a restorative circle, or an activity, please complete the request form. Contact restorative@bellevuecollege.edu if you have any questions or concerns. 
  • Social Justice Center – The Social Justice Center is a campus space dedicated to education, community care, and transformation through dialogue, training, and restorative practices. It offers a safe and inclusive environment where students engage in open conversation, learn from one another, and practice respectful expression. (B207 and B215) 
  • Student Care & Community Standards  – This office helps students understand Bellevue College’s community standards and the process for when those standards are violated. (U307) 
  • Student Engagement – Bellevue College offers activities and leadership opportunities that help students explore their interests, build community, and contribute to a diverse and welcoming campus. (L Lobby) 
  • Student Housing (for residents) – Staff create a safe, supportive community where students can learn and connect, offering conflict resolution and personal support to help residents succeed. 
  • Title IX – Connect with staff dedicated to addressing and investigating sexual misconduct. (C227) 
  • Veteran’s Services – Bellevue College’s Veteran’s Resource Center is designed to assist military service members and their families with their journey through college, career and beyond. (U306) 

Additional Resources 

Statements, News and Updates