Open Forums
The University of Miami provides spaces where issues can be deeply debated and explored without the threat of censorship. They include:
- Classrooms
- Lecture halls
- Residential colleges
- Online spaces and more
Institutional Neutrality
Institutional neutrality is the commitment our senior leadership makes to refrain from taking public positions on controversial issues unless the issue is materially related to the core mission and functioning of the University. Institutional neutrality does not obligate a university's students and faculty to remain silent. Its aim is to allow the greatest possible space for student and faculty voices.
Embracing institutional neutrality is an acknowledgment by the University’s leadership that the role of the administration is to encourage debates, not settle them.
Civil Discourse
Civil discourse is the practice of engaging in conversation and debate in a constructive manner that demonstrates respect for those with differing views. We support and challenge one another. We do not denigrate. We are one community—we are one U—and we are dedicated to the same purpose and the same values.
Civil discourse includes discussions taking place across our campuses—in our classrooms, labs, lecture halls, and common spaces. At its core, education, scholarship, research, and innovation require these vigorous discussions. It is also essential for pluralistic, democratic government and for navigating life.
Civil discourse doesn't require everyone to agree. It allows for a variety of viewpoints and for vigorous disagreement and debate. But people do need to also listen closely to one another and seriously consider whether an opposing view might have value even if we disagree. Finding common ground is as important as winning arguments.
Political polarization has made civil discourse more challenging, and in some cases has stopped it altogether. It is our job, each and every one of us, to honor and cherish the value of civil discourse.
