University Counterproposal on Academic Freedom
Barbara Altmann, Vice Provost for Academic Affairs and Professor of French
February 7, 2013
The University of Oregon stands committed to the principles of academic freedom. In the University’s policy statement on Freedom of Inquiry and Freedom of Speech we state: “The University encourages and supports open, vigorous, and challenging debate across the full spectrum of human issues,” and “the University will sustain a higher and more open standard for freedom of inquiry and free speech than may be expected or preferred in private settings.” The University also recognizes the responsibility of speakers, listeners and all members of our community to respect others and to promote a culture of mutual inquiry throughout the University community.
This recognition of the freedoms and responsibilities inherent in academic freedom is consistent with the AAUP’s classic “Statement of Principles on Academic Freedom and Tenure,” the relevant Oregon Administrative Rules, and with the academic freedom statements adopted by peer research universities.
The Union presented an Academic Freedom proposal earlier in the negotiations that placed great emphasis on the freedoms included in academic freedom. However, the proposal is nearly silent on the responsibilities of bargaining unit members to create and nurture an academic environment in which true academic freedom can exist.
In perhaps the most extreme section, the Union proposed that “[t]he content of faculty profiles in social media (Facebook, LinkedIn, etc) shall not be considered during any evaluation of a faculty member.” What if a bargaining unit member is using social media to threaten and intimidate colleagues? What about in a case of child pornography? The union proposal leaves no avenue for the University to include such activity in any evaluative process at any level in the University.
The University counterproposal, in contrast, stands alongside faculty and staff in its dedication to protecting and nurturing academic freedom by addressing essential freedoms and responsibilities. The University shares the Union’s commitment to and concern about protecting academic freedom. The bargaining team is looking forward to working with our colleagues at the table on this important article in the Collective Bargaining Agreement.
Questions?
If you have any questions about the contract negotiations, please contact me at baltmann@uoregon.edu or (541) 346-2172.
