The First Amendment

Hate is not an Aggie value.

As a Tier I research institution, the pursuit of truth through open and robust discourse is critical to academic inquiry. As a community of scholars comprising students, faculty, staff and administrators, the university has an aspirational expectation that such discourse will be conducted in accordance with Aggie Core Values. In this “marketplace of ideas,” we encourage civil and respectful dialogue creating an environment that allows individuals to express their ideas and to have their ideas challenged in respectful and responsible ways.

Each day, members of our community engage in dialogue about a wide range of topics, some which are emotionally charged. In these moments, there may be an inclination to speak words that are rude, distasteful or even hateful. Remember that just because there is a First Amendment right to say those words, doesn’t mean that we should. The First Amendment protects a person’s right to say hateful things, but we strive as a campus to be a community where no one will choose to express hate.

Whether we are engaging in person or online, there is an ongoing need to assess whether we are engaging in respectful discourse with others. Below are some suggestions for doing so:

• Seek common ground, even when we disagree. Articulate the common ground as part of the discussion.
• Assume the best in each other. Do not assume the motives of others if their opinions differ from our own.
• Disagree without attacking one another personally – disagree without delegitimizing.

Source: Lawrence, F.M. (2017). The contours of free expression on campus: free speech, academic freedom, and civility. Association of American Colleges & Universities.

The Aggie Core Values of Integrity and Respect don’t just exist in Aggieland — they live through our students and campus community members, no matter where they are. A good Aggie digital citizen uses good judgment and treats others with respect. Whether posting on social media, sending an email, or commenting on an online discussion, practicing good digital citizenship encourages positive discourse.

• Think before posting. Assume that online posts will live forever. Your digital footprint, a record left by everything you’ve done online, is also your personal and professional brand. Potential employers are increasingly viewing candidates’ social media accounts and online presence to determine if they are consistent with the values of their organization. There may not be an opportunity to explain a misunderstanding or lapse in judgment. Your expression online may be the only opportunity for others to learn about who you are.
• Respect others. Treat others the way you’d want to be treated online. Name calling and other verbal attacks rarely relate to the topic of conversation and often detract from the poster’s articulated viewpoint. They also do not embody the Aggie Core Values of Integrity and Respect.
• Engage intelligently. Research topics to inform your views. Now more than ever, online content puts a world of information at your fingertips. Use this information to understand the scope, pros, and cons of the issue, including opposing viewpoints. This helps to be better informed and engage in a more comprehensive way.

Source: Adapted from Social Integrity Reclaim Your Digital Space, University of Michigan,