On the bustling Turlington Plaza at the University of Florida campus, colorful tents, signs and flags draw the attention of those passing by.
Here, groups set up a table with promotional materials such as treats, stickers and flyers, which is known as tabling. Organizations or individuals use this common campus activity to share their messages and engage with students. For some, tabling is more than just promotion; it is a vital exercise of free speech on a college campus.
The Young Democratic Socialists of America (YDSA) UF chapter is one such group that uses tabling to both advocate for political causes and build community. They are hard to miss in their notable red tent, surrounded by multiple flags, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday. The group gathers to speak about the issues they wish to change in American democracy.
“We put out books on different theories and history. Not everyone agrees on everything, but we all share a commitment to anti-capitalism,” said Hannah Letzelter, vice chair of UF YDSA. The tent also serves as a gathering space for members to participate in free speech on campus.
“We table to support marginalized communities, like Palestinians and LGBTQ individuals, even when our views might be controversial. It is crucial that these conversations get to happen in a university setting,” Letzelter said.
Yoav Badash is another UF student who uses tabling as a form of expression while he represents UF Hillel, a Jewish organization on campus. His table focuses on advocating for the allyship between Israel and the United States.
“I’m tabling to illustrate how the U.S. and Israel have worked together to change the world. I want to show the facts behind our relationship, even if people see it differently on social media platforms like TikTok,” Badash said.
Badash believes tabling is important to reach people beyond the algorithms of social media. He also associates tabling with free speech rights.
“I respect others’ opinions, but I believe we should all have the opportunity to share our sides, whether through tabling or on social media,” he said. Although Badash doesn’t table often, just twice in the last two years, he sees the value in making personal connections behind a table.
“I think it is important for people to discuss things they don’t agree with and seek the truth. Our conversations should lead to more peace in the world,” said Badash.
David Martin approaches tabling from a different perspective. He is a UF alumnus who believes in the value of engaging with students. With an attention-grabbing sign that reads “Losing Your Religion,” Martin invites students to explore spiritual and philosophical questions. “I’m here to have a dialogue with students about whatever they want to talk about,” he said.
Martin believes college campuses are ideal places for free speech because they allow the exchange and testing of ideas. He added that tabling is his personal passion, one he’s pursued for nearly 25 years, not tied to any organization. “It is a place to challenge assumptions, hear rebuttals and grow in understanding,” he said.
His method is simple. He makes himself available and listens carefully to where students come from. Martin encourages open dialogue and intergenerational understanding. “When someone uses a term, I ask, ‘What do you mean by that?’ It helps find common ground and deeper meaning,” Martin said.
Tabling offers advantages for the onlookers as well. For students like freshman Vrajesh Patel, it encourages him to follow his natural curiosity. He recalled approaching UF Hillel and learning about their daily prayer tradition.
“I like to approach tables and learn something new. It is a good way to discover different perspectives on campus,” Patel said. Others, like first-year chemical engineering student Emily Tan, find tabling less engaging. She comments on possible issues many have had, such as time constraints.
“If I’m running to class, I usually just keep walking, maybe take a mental note to look something up later,” Tan said, adding that wearing headphones and texting helps her avoid interaction.
Despite varying levels of engagement, tabling remains a vital part of campus life and free speech. It provides a public space for organizations and individuals to express beliefs, challenge ideas and foster dialogue in an environment that values different perspectives.
“Free speech means not just the right to talk, but the responsibility to listen,” Patel said. “Tabling helps keep that conversation alive on campus.”
