Dear Students and Colleagues,

Over the last few weeks, we have seen an unwelcome level of divisiveness on display from some members of the Temple University community. At times, it has created an environment that feels fraught for students, faculty and staff alike. As we approach the midpoint of the fall semester, it is appropriate to remind ourselves of our shared expectations for this community.

Universities should foster an atmosphere where diverging viewpoints meet. Debate is healthy. It is how we challenge ourselves, learn from one another and make progress. As Philadelphia’s public research university, Temple works to cultivate a learning and work environment that is open to a wide diversity of thought, opinion and dialogue.  

Unfortunately, we have become aware of certain tasteless, cruel and, in some cases, hateful speech and acts expressed by individuals on campus. While these incidents will be reviewed in accordance with university policy, it is important that we remember that we can debate without being disrespectful.  

The expression of diverging viewpoints can evoke heightened emotions. Feeling strongly about an issue and vigorously disagreeing with an opposing view is appropriate. However, it is imperative that we express our disagreement with both civility and respect for one another. We can defend the right to free speech, but we must also hold ourselves to higher standards for how we engage with one another.  

Our defense of free speech and our standards of conduct must also apply universally across our community. They do not change based on who is speaking, what someone believes, what organization they belong to or whether their views are popular.

All of us are a sum of our parts, and no one should be reduced to a political belief, faith, race, nationality or any other single part of who they are. One of Temple’s core values is inclusivity, and we take pride in our commitment to being a place where every student, faculty and staff member is heard, valued and empowered to thrive and succeed.  

Thank you for doing your part to ensure that Temple continues to be an institution where every perspective matters.    

Sincerely,    

John Fry 
President