"It's too much to expect in an academic setting that we should all agree, but it is not too much to expect discipline and unvarying civility."

- John Howard

Civility is yet another topic we discuss constantly at Furman.  But, regardless of our efforts we still have acts of intolerance, bullying, fighting, and hazing on campus.  Rutgers University created the Project Civility foundation to help combat these acts on their own campus.  Since it's founding in 2009, Rutgers has had a noticeable increase in tolerance and acceptance across campus.  Project civility encourages small acts of courtesy, compassion, and respect.  The goal of the project was to produce a campus culture very aware of civility, integrity, and a citizenry that respects all cultures and persons.    

The question now is whether Furman University can promote a similar culture on our campus.  We all know that civility is the goal, but what can we do as students to help increase awareness or promote civility across campus?

First, it starts with your actions.  From a young age we've all been taught that "actions speak louder than words."  This mantra still rings true today.  Set an example for your friends and peers by exhibiting civility in your own thoughts, words, and actions.  

Second, we have to speak up.  Violations on civility occur because someone doesn't step in or speak up.  As examples of civility on campus it is also our responsibility to stand up for our fellow students, faculty, and staff and discourage intolerable acts.  

Third, and finally, we need to be open minded.  Furman students will never all agree on a particular religious affiliation, political party, or sexual orientation, but civility starts with acceptance.  We may not all agree or support another person's beliefs or actions, but the true test of civility stems from how we handle, discuss, and overcome differences.  

Please don't read this post as a charge, but merely my opinion and suggestion for all students to help increase civility in our interactions and discussions on campus.  

I'll leave you with one final quote: 

"If we lose love and self respect for each other, this is how we finally die."

-Maya Angelou

-Mack

"Stir the Pot!"

Diversity.  What are the first words that pop into your head when you hear that word?  Race?  Religion?  Gender?  Socioeconomic status?  Besides the definition, diversity is an important and prominent topic on Furman's campus today.  We have countless CLP's, speakers, forums, and trainings on the topic, but why? Has the message still not sunk in?  For those of you that are fans of "The Office" check out this clip to see how Michael, Dwight, and Pam interpret the meaning of diversity on "Diversity Day."  

Stereotypes.  That's a word we haven't touched on yet.  This video is a perfect example of how stereotypes are not only inaccurate generalizations but how they can also be hurtful to others.  Furman prides itself on its sense of community and welcoming and hospitable nature.  To uphold these beliefs we need to learn from Dwight's mistakes and not stereotype a particular group before we've taken the time to get to know them.  Here are a few tips and suggestions that I hope you will embrace and spread around campus.  With your help we can help break the aversion to diversity on campus. 


3 Tips to Try! 


1. Mix-it-up!  Sure Mix-it-up day in the DH can be a little awkward, but it is so rewarding when you take a chance and step out of your comfort zone.  Even take one or two friends with you so you aren't the only one mixing it up! 


2.  Join a new organization!  One of the best ways to meet new people is to join a new group or organization on campus.  When you're working towards a common goal any diversity issues are hidden by the group effort.  


3. Visit your neighbors!  Granted, this is much easier when you live on a residence hall, but don't neglect your neighbors just because you live in North Village now!  You can learn so much from talking to other people, plus an added bonus, you'll make four new friends too! 


-Mack