The old policy created an environment that many felt repressed free speech. With this new policy, we are working to create an environment in which diverse perspectives can be expressed. The door policy is a complicated issue, but our students wanted it reviewed and there was a lot of support for change. Our expectation is that students will discuss their differences of opinion with grace and civility. Each house in each residence hall will vote on whether or not to implement the new door policy.
Houses now vote individually on such issues as quiet hours and visitation times.
Any resident or staff member questioning the appropriateness of materials displayed on a resident's door may request that the issue be brought up for discussion at either a regular or special house meeting. The materials will be discussed by the resident making the complaint, the resident who posted the material and other members of the house. Following the discussion, house residents will take a non-binding vote on whether the material is offensive. If the house believes the material to be offensive, the student who posted it will be asked to remove it. If residence administrators find that any of the criteria are met, the resident posting the material may be ordered to remove the material.