Free Speech Approach
Dear Cougs,
On campus and beyond, contentious political and social issues are around every corner. At Washington State University, freedom of speech and expression about such issues is essential to who we are. We aspire to be an affirming community that encourages respect and learning where we can engage in diverse viewpoints. Throughout this election cycle and beyond, students, faculty, and staff are likely to encounter those who have viewpoints different from their own. While we hope that this discourse can happen in a respectful manner, it may be important to remind our community of our guidance around free speech.
WSU is committed to fostering an environment that encourages the free exchange of ideas, robust debate, and intellectual exploration. We support and promote each individual’s right to express their views and opinions for or against actions or ideas in which the individual has an interest, to associate freely with others, and to assemble peacefully, regardless of how acceptable the views or opinions are among others. Protecting speech helps preserve democracy, foster diversity of thought, encourage critical thinking, promote social changes, preserve academic freedom, promote transparency and accountability, and ensure fair treatment for all members of our community.
Protecting speech may at times mean protecting speech that is offensive or harmful. However, protecting the speech of all citizens is fundamental to a democratic society. That being said, short of prohibiting the expression of ideas, WSU will take all steps necessary to create and maintain inclusive and nondiscriminatory learning environments for all students.
The WSU Pullman Community Equity Response Team is hosting two webinars on free speech. The first is a panel discussion on free speech in the classroom for faculty and instructors from 10:30 a.m. to noon on Thursday, September 12. Assistant Attorney General Adam Malcolm will share insights about the First Amendment, and WSU Teaching Academy Chair Dr. Ashley Boyd will moderate a panel on the First Amendment and sharing advice for maintaining an inclusive classroom and a culture of open dialogue. Join via Zoom.
The second webinar will focus on WSU’s role in protecting free speech and students. It will be held from 3 to 4 p.m. on Wednesday, September 25. Assistant Attorney General Shelby Sieracki will discuss hate speech, unprotected versus protected speech, and time, place, and manner of free speech. Join via Zoom.
WSU community members with concerns about hate speech or discriminatory speech can contact Compliance and Civil Rights at ccr@wsu.edu, 509-335-8288, or through their online reporting form.
To learn more, visit the freedom of speech at WSU website.
Sincerely,
Dave Cillay and Lisa Guerrero
Dave Cillay
Interim Chancellor
Washington State University Pullman
Lisa Guerrero
Vice Chancellor for Equity and Inclusive Excellence
Washington State University Pullman