Freedom of Expression and Inclusion Statement

Butler University, founded on ideals of equity and academic excellence, is committed to fostering a vibrant academic community where freedom of speech and inclusion are fundamental principles that guide our collective endeavors. We believe that robust intellectual exchange, respectful dialogue, and diverse perspectives are essential to the pursuit of knowledge and understanding. As such, we uphold the following principles:

Inclusion We celebrate the diversity of backgrounds, identities, and experiences within our community. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where all individuals feel valued, respected, and empowered to participate fully in our shared university life.  We do not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on characteristics such as race, color, national origin, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, economic means, marital or parental status, or political affiliation.  All members of our community have the right to work, study, and live in a nurturing environment, free from discrimination.

Freedom of expression As we practice academic excellence, we recognize and uphold the need of every member of our community to freely express their ideas, opinions, and beliefs, with empathy.  This includes the freedom to engage in civil debate, peacefully protest, challenge prevailing ideas, and explore controversial or challenging subjects within the bounds of respectful discourse, University policy, and the law.

We uphold the principle of academic freedom, which ensures that faculty, students, and staff have the right to pursue teaching, learning, scholarship, research, and creative expression, without censorship or undue interference. 

With freedom comes responsibility. All members of the Butler community are to contribute to a collaborative, stimulating intellectual learning environment, fostering thoughtful engagement with differing viewpoints, upholding community standards, and contributing to the university’s mission of advancing knowledge and promoting social justice.

Navigating Complexity  We are committed to learning from our differences through informed dialogue, and constructive engagement, while adhering to the central tenets of higher education: academic freedom and intellectual rigor.  Through education, programming, and community initiatives, we strive to cultivate a culture of mutual understanding, empathy, and open dialogue across differences.