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Dear campus community, Wayne State University has always been rooted in the principles of intellectual curiosity, diversity of thought and the free exchange of ideas. As we begin this year, I reaffirm our commitment to fostering an inclusive learning environment where open dialogue and free speech are both protected and celebrated. This commitment to academic freedom is at the heart of our pluralistic institution. It allows us to engage in critical, respectful discourse and to challenge preconceptions to expand our understanding of our world. Whenever my office or other university community members make statements about important issues, we are deeply mindful of our commitment to an inclusive campus learning environment that embraces diversity and includes multiple perspectives. Our commitment to free speech does not imply a tolerance for discrimination, harassment, or other behavior intended to marginalize groups or individuals. Rather, it signifies our collective responsibility to engage in constructive dialogue, even when confronted with ideas that may challenge our own beliefs. On Wayne State’s campus, ideas should be rigorously debated so we can better understand one another and work together toward solutions that benefit our entire community. That’s why I am excited to announce that on Feb. 29, we will host a symposium for the entire Wayne State community focused on controversial campus speech. While details are still being finalized, we are planning two panels. One will consider the implications of hateful or upsetting speech on our institutional, academic and student interests. The second will examine how to balance these interests to promote free and civil discourse on our campus. University of California Berkeley School of Law Dean Erwin Chemerinsky and Seattle University President Eduardo M. Peñalver — renowned legal scholars and national leaders on issues of campus speech — will share the stage in a lunchtime keynote. More details, including a schedule and list of speakers, will be provided soon via email and in Today@Wayne. I hope you will join us for this important conversation. As we navigate a new year, let us recommit to the principles that define our institution and foster an inclusive learning environment for all members of our pluralistic campus community. I encourage each member of our academic community to approach conversations with respect, empathy and an openness to diverse perspectives. By doing so, we contribute to the richness of our academic community and create a positive environment for intellectual growth and civil engagement. Sincerely,
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