The University Of Chicago Advises Incoming Freshmen Not To Expect ‘Safe Spaces’ Or ‘Trigger Warnings’

A letter from the University of Chicago to incoming freshman has drawn plenty of attention for its refusal to allow “safe places” or “trigger warnings” on its campus. Both of these terms refer to places where a university will protect its students from anything that could possibly offend them. But university officials told its new student body that it is an inclusive campus. Therefore, they intend to protect the freedom of expression of all students, including university groups or speakers who come to campus. Jay Ellison, dean of students in the College Harper Memorial, told students that mutual respect is vital to the success of a campus, but it won’t shield students from unpopular ideas. Here are a few key excerpts from the letter:

“Our commitment to academic freedom means that we do not support so called ‘trigger warnings,’ we do not cancel invited speakers because their topics might prove controversial, and we do not condone the creation of intellectual ‘safe spaces’ where individuals can retreat from ideas and perspectives at odds with their own.

“Fostering the free exchange of ideas reinforces a related University priority-building a campus that welcomes people of all backgrounds. Diversity of opinion and background is a fundamental strength of our community. The members of our community must have the freedom to espouse and explore a wide range of ideas.”

This declaration is a major pivot from the majority of colleges across the country, who often cater to students’ needs once the first sign of dissent is present. But there’s now a question of whether this stance will open the floodgates for any type of speaker to come onto the campus. One of the country’s most prestigious universities may not be inviting extreme groups to speak, but it will be interesting to see what will come of this new policy.

Here’s a copy of the letter to freshman, courtesy of the Chicago Maroon.

(Via Fox News & The Chicago Maroon Twitter)