One of the responses Illinois Wesleyan University has made to a complaint of alleged antisemitism filed with the U.S. Department of Education is to codify rules that satisfy both First Amendment protections of free speech and the priority to make sure discourse is civil.
Illinois Wesleyan is among more than 60 institutions the Department of Education is investigating for alleged antisemitic discrimination. The complaint was filed in March 2024.
IWU president Sheahon Zenger said there is no room for antisemitism or intolerance anywhere on campus, or elsewhere in the nation.
“What we've done since that complaint was filed, and much of this was done before I ever got here, was update policies with regard to everything from peaceful rallies to university posters to external speakers, things that weren't in writing,” said Zenger.
He said IWU probably did not have those before out of "naivete," not knowing a world crisis would create such intense dialogue and emotion.
“Some guardrails needed to be put up to make sure that everyone plays fair with one another," said Zenger, adding the student affairs office oversees making sure students know the rules and operate under them.
“I believe since that time, our vice president for student affairs and others have done a nice job of communicating. We haven't had any issues in my time here. Going forward, I believe that this is a very intimate campus and our communication style, I believe, is strong,” said Zenger.
He acknowledged the climate is one of uncertainty.
“We're trying to work with what we've been told, through executive orders, memos, Dear Colleague letters. At the same time, you lean on your peers and your consultants as to how and what must and should be done, all the while staying true to your roots and your values,” said Zenger.
