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Civil Discourse Guidelines

Below are several policy guidelines for social media managers across campus which explain civil discourse and best practices for managing civil discourse on social media accounts and content associated with the University.

Civil Discourse

UWF promotes equality, diversity, inclusivity and civility in discourse while also respecting the dictates of the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. The University is committed to advancing civil discourse on its social media platforms, fostering a lively and fearless culture of debate and ensuring freedom of speech and an open exchange of ideas. These guidelines intend to protect the appropriate use of social media while prohibiting conduct through social media that may be unlawful or violative of professional standards.

University-affiliated outlets are encouraged to use social media as a means to connect with the UWF community and foster thoughtful engagement and dialogue about issues important to the University.

Best Practices for Civil Discourse on Social Media

  • Instill the importance of civil discourse, academic freedom and free speech from day one, utilizing social media as a respectful, open platform for discussion, deliberation and expression.
  • Share content on various issues and perspectives to promote exploration of multiple perspectives, understanding and learning opportunities on issues in the community.
  • Foster diverse conversations by encouraging university leadership to promote viewpoint diversity and open-minded discussion and debate, highlighting and enforcing policies that prohibit programming that excludes participation of vulnerable populations.
  • Promote a welcoming social media environment by developing clear, viewpoint-neutral policies and procedures governing incoming messages and comments. Make clear what is welcomed and what is not by having a policy on when to hide comments that appear threatening, harmful or unlawful.
  • Promote and provide targeted educational and professional development opportunities on social media civil discourse that reach various audiences.
  • Respond to comments critical of the University or its representatives with professional, non-defensive responses.
    • Example: “Thank you for sharing your concerns. We appreciate your willingness to reach out, and the proper channels have been notified. If we can assist you with anything else while this matter is being looked into, please let us know.”

Reach out to Institutional Communications at brand@uwf.edu if you have any questions or concerns.