White Plaza is a space specifically dedicated to empowering recognized voluntary student organizations and University departments, schools, and institutes to engage in a wide range of activities and programs. Whether you are planning an event, hosting a speech, setting up an information table, or displaying banners and posters, White Plaza is the ideal venue for public forums.
Information About White Plaza
Our community gathers in this space, with the expectation that all activities adhere to university policies designed to create an environment where every voice is welcomed and respected. We are committed to fostering an environment that upholds civil discourse, grounded in the belief that academic excellence and societal advancement are intrinsically linked to the robust exercise of protected speech and other forms of expression.
- White Plaza is a space available for Stanford students and other University programs, speeches, events, information tables, fairs, banners and posters.
- Learn about the policies and protocols regarding White Plaza, including what is permitted and prohibited. Reminder that all events and activities in White Plaza must follow the policies outlined and are for recognized Stanford student organizations and University departments, schools, and institutes.
Stanford strives to cultivate a campus culture that values the richness of diverse perspectives, encouraging all members of our community—students, faculty, staff, and visitors—to actively participate in discussions, debates, and expressions characteristic of a dynamic academic institution.
We recognize that civil discourse, defined by mutual respect, active listening, and thoughtful communication, is essential to our mission of educating future leaders, innovators, and engaged citizens. While the exchange of differing viewpoints may at times be uncomfortable or challenging to listen to, we uphold the importance of engaging in respectful and constructive dialogue that reflects our commitment to inclusivity and intellectual rigor.
White Plaza represents the university’s strong commitment to diversity, inclusion, and the core principles of free expression. As a historically significant free speech venue, White Plaza is also accessible to members of the public. The university endorses the exchange of ideas and debate in this space, while emphasizing that all interactions, displays, and programs must embody a deep respect for the diverse perspectives that enrich our community. This space is not solely for dialogue, but for dialogue conducted with integrity, inclusivity, and a commitment to upholding the dignity of every individual.
Tabling in White Plaza
Here you can learn more about tabling within White Plaza through our frequently asked questions. Additionally, you may use our form to submit a tabling request.
White Plaza Policy Statement and Purpose
Learn about the policies and protocols regarding White Plaza, including what is permitted and prohibited.
- Reminder: All events and activities in White Plaza must follow the policies outlined and are for recognized Stanford student organizations and University departments, schools, and institutes.
White Plaza is one of the academic centers of campus, so those planning to hold events there should take particular care to avoid disruptive impact on classes, university business or events in the surrounding buildings, especially during the typical work day, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Events and activities in support of or for opposition to political candidates or campaigns, except for those limited activities specifically are provided for in this policy.
Events in White Plaza must be organized by University departments or recognized student organizations and require prior approval from Student Affairs Meeting Services and Office of Student Engagement (OSE).
White Plaza is the outdoor area stretching from the Barnum Family Center to the front of Dinkelspiel Auditorium. Adjacent spaces not considered part of White Plaza are the Old Union Courtyard, the Tresidder Union patio, and the front steps of the Bookstore.
White Plaza is scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis for recognized Stanford student organizations and University departments, schools, and institutes only.
White Plaza is managed by Student Affairs Meeting Services (SAMS). For recognized student organizations, please register your event in CardinalEngage first. For all others, please contact Meeting Services first. After submitting the form, we can also be reached via email at meetingservices@stanford.edu or by telephone at 650.723.4314.
Costs for an event in White Plaza will vary greatly depending on the nature of the event. Get your equipment rental, technical services, and labor from Event Services, and be sure to file a work order if you will need electrical connections, sprinkler shutoff, or cleanup services. See our page on Submit Work Orders for more info.
Planning Lead Times for Student Events and Activities
| Event Type | Lead Time |
|---|---|
| Tabling in White Plaza by a University department or a recognized voluntary student organization. | No lead time, simply fill out the Tabling Registration form prior to tabling. |
Events that do not require support services, the limit for an event is 4 hours. *An exception by Student Affairs Meeting Services (SAMS) and the Office of Student Engagement (OSE) may be expedited on rare occasions. | 1 Week Minimum |
| Major campus events that involve support services such as University technical and custodial services, security, special deliveries, parking accommodations, displays and use of much of the White Plaza space. Examples include concerts and fairs. The limit for an event is 4 hours, with exceptions granted by Student Afairs Meeting Services and Office of Student Engagement. | 4 Week Minimum |
