Resolution of the University of Virginia Faculty Senate

Resolution of the University of Virginia Faculty Senate in Defense of Academic Freedom, Institutional Integrity, and the Principles of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

WHEREAS, the University of Virginia was founded upon the principles of free inquiry, freedom of thought, and the pursuit of knowledge as articulated by Thomas Jefferson, author of the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom and the primary author of the Declaration of Independence;

WHEREAS, the University of Virginia is committed to upholding the ideals of free speech, academic freedom, and the open exchange of ideas, as evidenced by its selection as the top institution in the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression’s 2024 college free speech rankings

WHEREAS, the University of Virginia faculty are dedicated to educating students, conducting research, and serving society in ways that promote intellectual growth and cultivate a more informed workforce equipped to participate fully in a modern democracy, which necessarily involves robust debate among diverse viewpoints, as well as active and equitable efforts to include marginalized perspectives from across the political spectrum

WHEREAS, the Presidential executive order on “Ending Radical and Wasteful Government DEI Programs and Preferencing” of 20 January 2025 and the Department of Education’s Dear Colleague Letter of 14 February2025 threaten to undermine these foundational principles by imposing restrictions on what faculty can research and teach

WHEREAS, these restrictions jeopardize the University’s capacity to fulfill its mission as an institution of higher learning and its commitment to fostering a community characterized by respect, dignity, and the free exchange of ideas

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the University of Virginia Faculty Senate:

1. Affirms its unwavering commitment to the principles of academic freedom, freedom of expression, and the pursuit of knowledge without unlawful governmental interference;

2. Stands in resolute support of faculty members whose teaching, research, and related service embody the values of non-discrimination, equal opportunity and belonging that are central to diversity, equity, and inclusion, recognizing these efforts as essential to the University’s mission;

3. Commits to working diligently with the University administration—including the Deans of Schools, the Provost, the President of the University, and the Board of Visitors—to protect faculty rights, defend the integrity of academic inquiry, and ensure the University remains a bastion of free thought and open discourse in service of our communities, Commonwealth, and country;

4. Demands an inclusive, on-going dialogue between all levels of the administration and the Faculty Senate in order to promote the Jeffersonian values of free inquiry, freedom of thought, and the fearless pursuit of knowledge on which this institution was founded.