"This has been a work in process for some time now," said YSU president Bill Johnson of a new policy announced this week.

As pro-Palestinian demonstrations take over several college campuses, the university's new policy looks to deal with those protests.

It's one Governor DeWine called on college and university presidents across Ohio to put into place.

It specifically addresses the appropriate use of university facilities and grounds, all in the name of safety.

Johnson told 21 News it's something of a supplement to the free speech policy the university already has.

"This clarifies a few things and again, it goes back to the safety and security of all the students, all the faculty, all the staff," Johnson said.

But not everyone is convinced.

The group Community Concerned for the Future of YSU claims the policy is trying to "shut down student's constitutionally guaranteed rights to free speech."

It also accuses Johnson of "demoralize (ing) all on campus through policies like" it.

Despite the growing outcry, Johnson insists that's not true.

"It certainly does not inhibit or stop students from exercising their free speech rights," said Johnson. "We have a culture here at YSU that is built on dignity, respect, courtesy, honoring each other as individuals, and I'm really grateful that our students have done that and continue to do that."

21 News was unable to reach any members of Community Concerned for the Future of YSU for an interview.

They are, however, planning to rally peacefully against the policy Friday at noon near the Pollock House, where the university president lives.

21 News also reached out to the YSU faculty union.

We're told they're reviewing this new policy, but in the meantime fully support the First Amendment's right to peaceful protest.

Below is a copy of the policy posted online by the YSU-OEA: