West Virginia University, the comprehensive research land-grant institution in West Virginia, provides educational opportunity, generates and advances knowledge, conducts scholarly activity and applies knowledge to individual and societal problems for the people of West Virginia and elsewhere. The principle that all people should have access to the benefits the university affords is fundamental. This can only be upheld in an atmosphere of mutual respect and trust, where the basic concepts and principles of social justice are honored. Students, faculty, staff, administrators and stakeholders share in the responsibility and the benefits of an effective commitment to social justice values.
The principle of social justice encompasses the legal and moral obligations to promote opportunity, equality, civility and respect for all people. The president’s office for social justice is charged with communicating, teaching and promoting these principles throughout the extended academic community and society, as well as fulfilling the relevant legal standards related to civil rights and affirmative action.
West Virginia University will address contemporary issues, including violence, hatred, bigotry, prejudice, equity, rage, discrimination, harassment and any barrier that interferes with learning, creates an undesirable work environment or diminishes the worth of any individual. This will be achieved through education and empowerment of individuals and groups regarding issues of diversity and respect for each other’s differences, while preserving legitimate rights of free speech in a democratic society.
