As a flagship university, the University of Mississippi fosters freedom of speech and the exchange of diverse opinions. At the same time, we strongly condemn all threatening, racist, bigoted, or otherwise harmful comments, such as those made on social media in recent days and directed at our African American, Jewish, and LGBTQ communities.
Our top priority is a safe and welcoming environment for our students, faculty, staff, and visitors to our campus. We have a number of mechanisms to achieve this goal.
Later this week, I will provide more information about opportunities to engage in conversations and activities designed to share concerns and find solutions. As we continue to work together, I offer the following tips to apply the principles of the UM Creed on social media to promote responsible and civil dialogue:
10 Ways to Apply the UM Creed on Social Media
- Understand that social media is an extension of our campus and community space.
- If you feel that speech endangers someone, report it!
- See something harmful to members of our community? Speak up!
- Challenge it! “As a community, we condemn this language.”
- Consider the intent and impact of your words. Words matter!
- Practice civility and encourage education. Allow others to learn from their mistakes.
- Suspend your emotion. Critically analyze the conversation.
- Take it off-line. “Let’s have a conversation later when we aren’t so angry.”
- Know when to disengage from the conversation.
- Closely monitor your own posts for offensive or harmful comments.
We take very seriously the health and safety of every member of our faculty, staff, and student body, as well as every person who visits our campus. Any incidents or concerns should be reported to the University Police Department at 662-915-7234. To report a bias incident, click here.
Courtesy of Chancellor Vitter’s Blog
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