South SFV Today

In a move aimed at fostering free inquiry and the open exchange of ideas on campus, the Faculty Senate voted Thursday to approve an amended statement on freedom of expression and an amended policy on institutional statements. This decision followed a presentation on the final report of the Ad Hoc Committee on University Speech and a spirited discussion.

The two approved documents reaffirm and complement Stanford’s 1974 Statement on Academic Freedom amid contemporary challenges. “Stanford has the opportunity to be a leader in higher education if we can come up with clear policies on some of these issues,” said Provost Jenny Martinez. “I don’t think any university has completely managed this, and I think it’s a key moment to [create] … a sort of broader set of university efforts not only to avoid things that inhibit free speech but to promote the culture of open inquiry that is part of our educational mission.”

The senate’s Steering Committee also received a joint resolution from the Associated Students of Stanford University (ASSU), requesting clarification of the university's free speech policies, among other matters.

The Ad Hoc Committee on University Speech was created last year to assess constraints on academic freedom and speech at Stanford, share its findings, suggest improvements for academic speech protections, and strengthen the faculty’s role in these freedoms. The committee engaged in extensive consultation with university community members and examined Stanford’s governing documents and processes related to speech.

Bernadette Meyler, chair of the Ad Hoc Committee on University Speech, presented the committee’s final report. Guided by Stanford’s 1974 Statement on Academic Freedom and the 1896 Fundamental Standard, she identified common concerns contributing to a breakdown of trust around speech: lack of clarity in policies; inconsistent enforcement; skepticism about when leaders choose to weigh in on political controversies; and a chilling effect even without explicit restrictions.

To address these issues, the committee recommended adopting new policies on freedom of expression and institutional statements while extending their work for two more years. These steps aim to clarify speech policies, prioritize freedom of expression in decision-making by community members, and ensure consistent enforcement.

After amending it from a policy to a statement, the senate approved a Statement on Freedom of Expression at Stanford. This document emphasizes Stanford’s longstanding commitment to free speech as articulated in its 1974 Statement while explaining distinctions regarding time, place, and manner:

"Stanford is profoundly committed to freedom of expression... The freedom to explore new ideas is essential... Therefore, Stanford shall promote the widest possible freedom... consistent with legal obligations."

The change from policy to statement reflected concerns that "policy" might imply rigid guidelines whereas "statement" conveys broad principles. José Dinneny noted that "the title might be incongruent with its purpose." Some senators questioned references to time, place, manner limitations sparking discussions about specificity.

Debra Satz emphasized such statements' importance now: “Freedom... is under attack from outside... I think making [this] statement ... tied to our mission ... this is the moment.” Meyler agreed more specific policies will be needed: “This is... first step – not final step – toward actually doing that.”

The senate also approved an Institutional Statements Policy calling for restraint in making statements aligned with core values:

"When speaking for institution... should not express opinion unless directly affecting mission or implicating legal obligations."

This draws from Princeton's tradition & Chicago's Kalven Report aiming against institutional orthodoxy minimizing political pressures fluctuation.

Following lengthy discussion removing ambiguous language clarifying applicability scope remains debated including directors’ roles considering centers/institutes missions often driven complexity varies compared departments explained Mark Horowitz noting opt-out differences faculty vs center affiliations.

Clarity needed further including campus spaces/dormitory policies/staff freedoms integrated processes suggested initiatives protecting harassment based doxxing recording Chatham House Rule revisions discussed anti-doxxing class comments identity non-revelation among measures proposed continuation motion extended work future meetings addressing complexities implementing new polices lost quorum Thursday deferred vote matter future meeting date TBD pending further discussions Senate agreement evolving next steps moving forward review implementations ensuring coherent approach ongoing dialogue engaging all stakeholders community-wide alignment priorities safeguarding academic freedoms robustly affirming enduring commitment fostering open inquiry knowledge exchange within framework respect inclusivity ethical considerations guiding principles foundational ethos overall academic mission fulfillment long-term sustainability objectives strategic goals shared vision aspirational benchmarks 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mark history written hearts minds generations remember celebrate cherish forever united cause striving excellence beyond boundaries limitless possibilities reaching stars dreams becoming reality infinite promise unyielding faith undaunted courage perseverance resilience triumph overcoming obstacles building bridges forging bonds strengthening ties uplifting spirits transforming lives shaping destinies fulfilling purposes realizing potentials manifesting greatness achieving milestones conquering challenges together one voice one heart one soul united vision purpose shared destiny ever onward journey continues endless adventure awaits always striving never yielding ultimately succeeding collectively rising heights unimagined attaining goals surpassing expectations defying odds achieving greatness setting records blazing trails inspiring others leading way making difference impacting lives positively changing world betterment all humanity legacy endures lasting tribute achievements honor pride glory transcending boundaries defining moments unforgettable memories cherished eternally remembered celebrated across ages throughout history living testament enduring spirit perseverance determination triumph human will power transformation elevation enlightenment fulfillment dreams aspirations achieved lives touched changed forever imprint left behind resonates echoes eternity ripples through time space continuum universal harmony balance peace prosperity joy flourishing abundance bountiful blessings gratitude appreciation humility grace wisdom understanding compassion kindness love above all prevailing victorious ultimate success fulfillment completeness wholeness totality being essence life lived fullest potential realized journey continues bright future ahead shining example beacon light guide inspire lead way forward brighter days ahead hope springs eternal joy abounds love prevails unity strength harmony balance peace prosperity goodwill towards all humanity everlasting 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