Free Speech Forum Updates

Emergency Contact: A 24-hour emergency line is available for all students and parents throughout the program. If you need urgent assistance, you can reach us at 320-FSF-HELP (320-373-4357).

Non-Urgent Communication: For general inquiries or if you need to contact our team, please email us at conference@thefire.org. This is the preferred method for non-urgent communication.

Dormitories

Students will live in an on-campus dormitory with an assigned roommate. Students will have the ability to request roommates on the Roommate Request Form. Both students must request each other for the match to be considered. If you do not request a roommate, you will be randomly assigned a roommate of the same gender identity and age. 

Staff members and counselors reside in the dorm and are available 24 hours a day. Staff are responsible for the health and supervision of the students, as well as academic counseling. For security reasons, students must wear their FIRE name tag at all times when not in their rooms.

Housing decisions are made to enhance a student’s Forum experience. Rooming assignments are left to the discretion of the FIRE program staff and counselors.

Meals

The dining hall serves three meals daily; the first meal of the program will be dinner on the first day of the program, and the last meal provided will be breakfast on the last day of the program. Attendees will have breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the university dining hall, which has a large selection of food that can accommodate all dietary restrictions.

On days when field trips take us off campus, meals will be provided.

Linens

Each participant will be provided the following linens: two bedsheets, blanket, pillow, pillowcase, and a bath towel for the duration of the program.

Laundry

We recommend packing enough clothing to avoid the need for laundry during the week. While there is a laundry room on each level of the dormitories, please note that laundry supplies (such as detergent and fabric softener) are not provided. If you plan to do laundry, be sure to bring your own supplies.

Spending Money

Items not covered in the program include personal items, snacks, souvenirs, recreational activities outside of scheduled program activities, replacement of lost meal cards or room keys, and medical treatment costs. We recommend students bring some cash and/or a debit or credit card with them to pay for these extra costs. Please do not bring large amounts of cash to the Forum. It is the student’s responsibility to keep track of their items. FIRE and American University are not liable for any loss, theft, or damage to personal items, including any spending money or payment methods. 

Religious Services

Students that need to attend religious services that conflict with classes or other Forum programming should speak to Staff ahead of the start of the program. Participants who would like to attend religious services should plan to attend an on-campus service.

At the Free Speech Forum, we want you to feel comfortable, prepared, and confident for both academic sessions and activities outside the classroom. Here’s everything you need to know about the dress code and how to pack for the week:

FIRE will provide the following items to all students:

• Free Speech Forum T-shirt
• Tote bag
• A pair of FIRE-branded socks
• Water bottle
• Pen and notebook

Dress Code

• Shoes are required at all times—whether you’re in class, dining at the hall, or in the dorm.
• Be sure to check the weather forecast for Washington, D.C. before you arrive and plan your clothing accordingly.
• We recommend packing lightweight, comfortable clothing that is easy to care for, including breathable fabrics and versatile pieces that can work for both indoor and outdoor activities.

You’ll also participate in off-campus field trips that involve walking and standing outdoors. To ensure you’re comfortable, please bring footwear that’s suitable for these excursions. We recommend closed-toe shoes or sneakers to help you fully enjoy the experience.

Special Events and Presentations

We will have three special sessions that require business casual attire. Business casual attire includes:

• Slacks or skirts
• Collared shirts or blouses
• Dresses

If you prefer a more formal look, business attire (such as a suit or blazer) is also acceptable, though not required. The goal is to help you feel confident and polished for these occasions. Choose an outfit that makes you feel prepared and professional!

What is Appropriate for Special Events?

• Dress shirts with a collar or blouses
• Shirts tucked in
• Sweaters, coats, blazers, or jackets
• Dresses, skirts, or slacks
• Jeans (free of rips, tears, and fraying)
• Dress shoes, loafers, or dark athletic shoes (well-maintained)

What is Not Appropriate for Special Events?

• Athletic pants, leggings, or casual workout gear
• Inappropriately short pants, dresses, or skirts (those that are too short to be comfortable or respectful in a professional setting)
• Strapless, spaghetti strap, or backless tops

General Dress Code for Day-to-Day Activities

Other than as described above for special events and presentations, you’re welcome to wear casual attire such as shorts, athletic wear, or jeans during downtime or for everyday activities. However, please prepare to wear business casual attire for occasions when you’ll be attending special events or representing the Forum, as noted above. Dressing appropriately for these occasions helps foster a respectful and professional atmosphere and encourages a mindset of focus and preparation.

By planning ahead and packing thoughtfully, you’ll be able to focus on making the most of your time at the Forum without worrying about what to wear. 

Packing list 

Pack items that will make your stay more comfortable. Do not bring any expensive items that you cannot afford to replace. Neither FIRE nor American University can assume responsibility for your personal belongings.

Medication Policy

FIRE staff will only administer acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil) and no other medications. It is your responsibility to ensure that your child brings any required over-the-counter medications (such as allergy medication, antacids, etc.) for personal use. FIRE staff will not be responsible for administering prescription medications. If your child requires prescription medication during the program, arrangements must be made for the student to manage their own medication.

Here are a list of items you may wish to bring:

Personal Care & Toiletries:

• Extra linens, towels, or blanket (if preferred)
• Soap
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Hairbrush/comb
• Hand sanitizer
• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Deodorant
• Glasses and/or contact lenses
• Feminine products
• Shaving gear
• Lotion
• Sunscreen
• Lip balm with SPF
• Bug repellent
• After-sun lotion or aloe vera gel
• Tissues
• Cotton swabs & cotton pads
• Nail clippers or nail file

Electronics & Accessories:

• Laptop, tablet, or smartphone
• Chargers for your electronic devices
• Headphones (anyone watching their device, or listening to their music individually must use headphones)
• Power bank (for charging on-the-go)
• Extension cord
• Small clip-on desk light
• Clip-on fan

Camp Essentials:

• Spending money (for meals off campus, recreation, souvenirs)
• Backpack (for day trips or carrying essentials)
• Sunglasses and/or a hat
• Shower shoes/flip flops
• Hand sanitizer
• Laundry bag for dirty clothes
• Snacks (non-perishable)

Additional Comfort Items:

• Earplugs or sleep mask
• Book for personal downtime

Important Documents:

• ID/Passport (if required for travel)
• Photocopy of front and back of health insurance card

Computers, Internet, Telephones

Computers & Electronic Devices

It is strongly recommended that students bring a laptop or tablet to facilitate assignments and classwork. Some high schools offer laptops for student use, so if you don’t have one, you may want to check with your school to see if borrowing one is an option. While laptops or tablets are not mandatory for the program, having one will make completing assignments much easier.

If you do not have a personal device (laptop, tablet, or smartphone) that can be used for assignments, please reach out to FIRE staff prior to the start of the program to discuss options for completing classwork.

Important: All computers and electronic devices should be insured against loss, damage, or theft. FIRE and American University are not responsible for any loss, theft, or damage to your personal electronic equipment or other belongings during the program.

Wi-Fi Access

Wi-Fi is available throughout American University. However, please be aware that when using the university’s Wi-Fi network, you are required to follow their rules regarding internet use. This includes restrictions on downloading materials such as music, movies, games, software, etc. Illegal downloading (including copyrighted content) can result in legal action from the university or suspension of your internet access.

By using the university’s Wi-Fi, you are agreeing to abide by the terms of their Internet Usage Agreement. It is your responsibility to familiarize yourself with these rules and comply accordingly.

Telephones

Students are strongly encouraged to bring a cell phone for communication, though it is not mandatory. Parents should note that students cannot be reached directly at the camp phone number. If needed, parents can contact FIRE staff by calling 215-717-FIRE or emailing conference@thefire.org. If emailing, please ensure to include the students name in the subject line.

Please be aware that phone use might be subject to certain restrictions during activities, and students should be mindful of any guidelines provided about phone usage during the program. Please note that it is the student’s responsibility to keep track of their cell phone during the Forum. FIRE and American University are not liable for any lost, stolen, or damaged phones. It is recommended that students label their phone and take extra care of keeping it secure at all times. 

Arrival & Registration on June 22, 2025

• Registration will take place on the first day of the program at American University, from 10:00 AM to 3:00
• Students may not drive themselves or have a car at the program.

Tentative Schedule for Day of Arrival

10:00 am - 3:00 pm: Registration and check-in at American University

10:30 am - 4:45 pm: Unpack, meet counselors

5:00 pm - 6:00 pm: Orientation and keynote

6:00 pm - 7:00 pm: Dinner

7:00 pm - 9:00 pm: Ice cream social and yard games

9:00 pm - 10:00 pm: Wind down and shower time

10:00 pm: Curfew

Departure on June 28, 2025

7:00 am - 9:00 am: Pack and breakfast

9:00 am - 11:00 am: Closing ceremony

11:00 am - 12:00 pm: Check-out and transport to airport/train station

Sample Daily Schedule

8:00 am: Breakfast

9:15 am: Homeroom

10:00 am: Class

12:00 pm: Lunch

2:00 pm: Class

3:30 pm: Free time

5:00 pm: Class

6:00 pm: Dinner

7:00 pm: Evening activity

9:00 pm: Wind-down time

10:00 pm: Room check and lights out

If you have any questions or need assistance with your travel plans, don’t hesitate to contact us—we’re here to help ensure a smooth and stress-free arrival and departure.

Travel by Car

Arrival information: Please plan to drop off your child between 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. on June 22, 2025

Departure information: Please plan to pick up your child between 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. on June 28, 2025.

FIRE Free Speech Forum address
4400 Massachusetts Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20016-8101

Note: As noted above, students may not drive themselves to the program, nor will they be allowed to have a car while at the program. Students may not drive at any time during the Forum. This policy is strictly enforced—NO EXCEPTIONS.

Travel by Plane

Parents or guardians are responsible for booking their child’s flight. For any changes to travel plans, please email FIRE at conference@thefire.org.

Please ensure your child has the appropriate identification for air travel. Consult with your airline for their specific requirements.

Unaccompanied Minor Policy

Please do not arrange for "unaccompanied minor" status with the airline, as FIRE staff are unable to enter the airport to pick up your student. This status is only required for students aged five to fourteen. Therefore, it is not necessary to select the unaccompanied minor option when purchasing the airline ticket.

If you wish to accompany your minor on the flight, you are welcome to do so. However, please note that you will not be able to attend the Forum or any events throughout the week.

Baggage Guidelines

• Label all bags: Clearly mark each bag with the student’s name, home address, and phone number both on the outside and inside.
• Please check with your airline regarding any additional baggage fees and arrange to pay them in advance. FIRE is not responsible for any baggage fees.

Travel by Train 

Parents or guardians are responsible for booking their child’s train ticket. For any changes to travel plans, please email FIRE at conference@thefire.org.

Unaccompanied Minor Policy

Children 13, 14 and 15 years old may travel unaccompanied in accordance with the Amtrak Unaccompanied Minor Policy.

Children 16 and over may travel without restriction.

Baggage Guidelines

• Label all bags: Clearly mark each bag with the student’s name, home address, and phone number both on the outside and inside.
• Please check with Amtrak regarding any additional baggage fees and arrange to pay them in advance. FIRE is not responsible for any baggage fees.

Community Guidelines

• FIRE Forum students and staff live in a supportive, family-like environment, and the success of the program depends on everyone’s cooperation.
• We expect students to respect one another and maintain a positive attitude throughout the Forum.
• Certain minimum standards of conduct are required to ensure a productive and enjoyable experience for everyone.
• All students, along with their parent(s) or guardian(s), must review and acknowledge the rules by signing the acknowledgement form below prior to participating in the program.

Staff and Counselor Support

• FIRE staff and counselors reside in the dormitories with Forum students. They are available 24 hours a day and are responsible for the health, safety, and supervision of students.
• Faculty and staff members also participate actively in the non-academic aspects of the program, including recreational activities and off-campus excursions.
• All FIRE staff and counselors are background checked and most are CPR/First Aid trained.

Curfew and Dormitory Conduct

• Students must be in their assigned dorm floor by 9:00 PM each evening and may not leave the dorm thereafter.
• Room checks will be conducted at 10:00 PM. After room checks, students must remain in their rooms quietly studying or sleeping.
• Students must respect the privacy of their dorm mates. Loud noise will not be tolerated at any time, and quiet hours are observed from 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM.

Noise and Behavior

• No wrestling or horseplay is allowed in the dorms or on campus.
• Students may not throw anything out of dorm windows.
• Pranks or hazing will not be tolerated.
• Students must not play with fire extinguishers or fire alarms. Activation of alarms or unnecessary use of extinguishers will result in fines and expulsion.

Room and Common Space Maintenance

• Students are responsible for keeping their rooms and common spaces in good condition.
• Students who cause damage or steal will be held financially responsible and may not be allowed to attend future FIRE programs.
• Respect all furnishing and do not rearrange your room. There is a minimum one hundred and fifty dollar ($150.00) charge for each room requiring excessive cleaning upon the departure of guests. Excessive cleaning is defined as removal of more than one receptacle of trash from a room, rooms requiring carpet cleaning, and rooms requiring excessive realignment of furnishings.

Damage to Property

• The use of university facilities is a privilege, and students must conduct themselves in a mature and respectful manner.
• Reckless or malicious damage to university property, or the property of others, will result in financial liability and may lead to expulsion from the program.

Adherence to Laws and Policies

Students must abide by all rules established by FIRE, American University, and all local, state, and federal laws.

For the safety and well-being of all students, staff, and visitors, firearms, explosives, and any other dangerous weapons or materials are strictly prohibited. This includes both on campus and off campus activities. 

Violations of this policy will result in disciplinary action, up to and including discharge from the Forum.

We are committed to maintaining a safe and secure environment for everyone and appreciate students adhering to this policy and all applicable local, state, and federal laws.

Smoking, Vaping, and Tobacco Products

Smoking, vaping, e-cigarettes, or any other tobacco products are strictly prohibited on campus.

Alcohol, Drugs, and Medication

• The use of alcohol or illegal drugs is not permitted.
• Students are not permitted to use prescription medications that have not been prescribed to them by a physician. All medications should be clearly labeled with the student's name.
• Marijuana use, in any form, is prohibited, regardless of the student’s age, local laws, or medical status.

Harassment and Discrimination

Harassment, whether sexual or of any other kind, will not be tolerated. This applies to students, faculty, staff, or any individuals associated with the program.

Attendance and Illness

• Students must attend all classes and activities.
• If a student is too ill to attend class, a staff member must be notified. If necessary, students will be taken to the local health services of FIRE’s choice for care.

Academic Integrity

• Academic honesty is vital. Cheating or plagiarism will not be tolerated.
• FIRE encourages a supportive academic environment. If a student is struggling academically, they should reach out to their counselor for guidance and support.

Compliance with Announced Rules

Students are expected to comply with all other rules that may be announced by FIRE throughout the course of the program.

Violation of Rules

• If a student violates any of the program’s rules, their parents or guardians will be notified.
• Serious violations may result in the student being sent home at the family’s expense.
• In rare cases, students may be dismissed for academic failure due to lack of effort, failure to participate in programming, or repeated absences from class or activities.

Vehicles and Transportation

• Students may not bring cars or any other motor vehicles to campus.
• Students may not drive at any time during the Forum.

Leaving Campus

• Students may not leave campus without an approved adult. Approval must be obtained from the FIRE Vice President of Student Development by emailing conference@thefire.org.
• Students may not leave with a relative (other than a parent or legal guardian) or any other adult during the Forum.
• Any off-campus travel must be pre-arranged with the FIRE Vice President of Student Outreach by emailing conference@thefire.org.

Visitors

• Students may not have visitors during the event.
• After registration on the first day, students may not invite visitors onto campus or associate with anyone not officially part of the program, including other student groups on campus.
• Parents and guardians are not allowed to visit their child during the program.

Photography and Promotional Use

• Any photographs or video taken by FIRE or American University staff during the event may be used for future promotional materials. 

Sick Policy 

The well-being, health, and safety of our students and staff are our top priority. A nurse will be available to assist students with routine illnesses or other health concerns.

This policy outlines our approach to illness prevention and the protocols in place during the Forum.

• If a student is too ill to attend class, a staff member must be notified. If needed, the student will be taken to health services for further care.
• Parents will be notified promptly if their child is ill or requires immediate medical attention.
• Students or staff who are sick must be symptom- and fever-free for at least 24 hours before returning to the Forum.
• FIRE will provide an isolation dorm room for students showing symptoms or a fever.

Both FIRE and American University are committed to adhering to the CDC's guidelines and recommendations for COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses. Students and staff should follow CDC guidance for all respiratory illnesses.

American University Summer Policies and Regulations

1. The guest shall conform and comply with all laws, regulations and ordinances of the District of Columbia and the United States of America.
2. The student/guest shall not violate any rules governing University residence halls, nor use the space for any disorderly purpose, or in such a manner as to interfere with the rights of other guests in their pursuits. Violations of the rules governing University residence halls may subject the guests to disciplinary action.
3. The student/guest shall conform and comply with all of the following prohibited conduct related to illegal drugs:
   1. To use or possess any illegal drug (including medical marijuana) or drug paraphernalia in the residence halls.
   2. To sell, manufacture, or distribute any illegal drug (including medical marijuana) or drug paraphernalia in the residence halls.
   3. To knowingly and voluntarily be in the presence of any illegal drug (including medical marijuana) or drug paraphernalia in the residence halls.
4. In the District of Columbia, the possession and/or use of alcohol by persons under the age of 21 is prohibited. A guest is accountable for what occurs in the room(s) and/or unit(s) and is therefore expected to comply with District laws and University policies in the possession, consumption, and distribution of alcohol. All residence halls and apartments are alcohol-free from mid-May to mid-August regardless of age.

Residence Hall Regulations

The guest shall not engage in the following prohibited conduct related to Residence Hall Safety and Security:

1. Enter any residence hall without showing an access card or proper identification to a housing staff member, or upon the request of a staff member.
2. Allow or permit visitors to enter any residence hall. However, guests may have escorted visitors to assist with move-in and move-out of the Residence Hall.
3. Open, prop, or block fire or other exit/outside doors without the permission of a housing staff member, except during a fire alarm.
4. Pull or engage any elevator alarm bell without due cause or interfere with the normal operation of elevators.
5. Duplicate any University issued keys or access cards.
6. Fail to return a temporary access card within 10 minutes of signing it out at the front desk.
7. Enter or exit the residence hall through a window, unless in response to an emergency.
8. Enter restricted areas including, but not limited to building roofs and reception desks in any residence hall.
9. Drop or throw any object or any liquid from windows.
10. Possess weapons or dangerous materials, including but not limited to firearms, air or CO2-powered weapons, and fireworks in any residence hall.

The guest shall not engage in the following prohibited conduct related to Fire Codes:

1. Set a fire inside a building or in areas of contiguous buildings.
2. Smoke in residence hall rooms, apartments, common areas, and private residential spaces, in accordance with the laws of the District of Columbia which prohibit smoking in public areas, and in order to ensure the health and safety of residents.
3. Use any appliances in student rooms, on carpeted floors, in hallways, or other non-designated areas that have an external or exposed heating source, including but not limited to halogen lamps, space heaters, broiler ovens, grills, electric coffee makers, microwave ovens, hotplates, rice cookers, or electric water heating devices.
4. Place in a residence hall room any refrigerator larger than 4.5 cubic ft. in size.
5. Cook indoors with charcoal or any open flame device.
6. Possess or burn any candle or incense indoors.
7. Fail to immediately and properly evacuate the buildings when a fire alarm sounds, or to reenter any evacuated building before receiving permission from a housing or Public Safety staff member.
8. Tamper with fire equipment, or to carry or remove fire extinguishers from their mounts or storage boxes, except in case of a fire.
9. Pull or activate any fire alarm when no fire is present, or falsely report a fire or other emergency.
10. Fail to plug electronic equipment and heat-producing appliances directly into electrical outlets or fail to use UL-approved surge protectors/power strips for all other items requiring electricity.
11. Tamper with any smoke detector.
12. Run electrical wires beneath any rug or carpet.
13. Smoke or vape in any residence hall room or residential space and/or property operated by University Housing & Residential Life/UCGS, including but not limited to stairwells, lobbies or any space not designated for smoking.

The guest shall not engage in any the following prohibited conduct related to Property:

1. Remove furniture from any bedroom, living unit, or general floor common area without authorization of housing staff.
2. Place waterbeds in guests’ rooms.
3. Keep any pet, except fish, in guests’ rooms.
4. Mark, deface, steal, harbor, or damage any property belonging to the University, any hall, resident, or commercial vendor (such as doors, walls, carpet, vending machines, video games, washing machines, dryers, telephone equipment, etc.).
5. Make material alterations to an assigned residential space and/or property operated by University Housing & Residence Life/UCGS.
6. The guest shall not engage in any of the following prohibited conduct related to Community Disruption:
   1. Disorderly conduct or interfere with the rights of other guests. This specifically and especially pertains to other guests’ rights to an environment conducive to study and to sleep.
   2. Engage in sports activity within the residence halls or within 50 feet of any residence hall.
   3. Create excessive noise by any means. This includes creating excessive noise within 50 feet of any residence hall, shouting, or creating disturbances from any residence hall window, playing loudspeakers through room windows at any time, noise audible outside a student room or in public areas, especially, but not limited to the hours of 10p.m. – 8a.m., Monday – Sunday. These times are considered quiet hours.
   4. Refuse to follow a directive from a university staff member when acting in the performance of his or her duties.
   5. Solicit, canvass, post, or distribute any materials within the residence halls without the approval of the community director or to violate the University or residence hall posting policies.
   6. Have a day or overnight visitor.
   7. Fail to comply with any Health and Safety guidelines or directives published by the University related to the Communicable Disease policy.

Related to the possession and/or consumption of alcohol in the residence halls/apartments:

1. Alcohol is strictly prohibited on the University campus from mid-May until mid-August, regardless of age.

Related to the possession and/or consumption of illegal drugs in the residence halls/apartments:

1. Sell, manufacture, or distribute illegal drugs in the residence halls.
2. Use or possess any controlled substance, illegal drug or drug paraphernalia including marijuana and medical marijuana in the residence halls and/or property operated by University Housing & Residence Life/UCGS.
3. Knowingly and voluntarily be in the presence of any illegal drug including marijuana or medical marijuana, or drug paraphernalia in the residence halls and /or property operated by University Housing & Residence Life/UCGS.