Supporting the University’s Summer Reading Program, In Light of Recent Events and Controversy
RESOLUTION OF THE EMPLOYEE FORUM
THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA AT CHAPEL HILL
September 4, 2002
WHEREAS, the Mission of the Employee Forum is to address constructively the concerns of the Employees of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; and
WHEREAS these concerns include the academic reputation of the University itself, the very foundation for the good work and research done in this hallowed place; and
WHEREAS this reputation is utterly dependent on the free and open exchange of ideas; and
WHEREAS the summer reading program, featuring “Approaching the Qur’an: the Early Revelations,” exemplifies the spirit of free inquiry that animates University life; and
WHEREAS assigning “Approaching the Qur’an: the Early Revelations” as a summer reading assignment does not constitute imposition of religious beliefs upon students, but rather composes the first of many intellectual challenges to face students in their time at Carolina; and
WHEREAS the Forum believes that the University’s tradition of free speech and inquiry aids all members of the University community, faculty, staff and students
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Employee Forum praises Chancellor James Moeser and the University faculty for their stand in favor of academic freedom
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Forum recommends that the University continue this tradition in its assorted dealings with faculty, staff, students and outside parties, allowing the battle of ideas to continue unabated within and without the University campus.
Signed on Behalf of the Delegates of the Employee Forum,
Chair Tommy Griffin