Students have created Cut H8 Wichita State, a new organization to inspire students, faculty and staff to work together toward an inclusive and welcoming campus community in which prejudice is reduced, individual beliefs are respected and the free expression of ideas is valued.
The initiative is led by graduate student Rheanna Pierce and senior Josh Villa.
Cut H8 seeks to educate the university community about bias, reduce the number of bias incidents and educate those involved about alternative means of expressing their beliefs.
A bias-related incident is any word or action directed toward an individual or group based upon actual or perceived identity characteristics or background of a group or person that is experienced as being harmful or hurtful.
At the core of this new effort is an understanding that the U.S. Constitution grants sweeping First Amendment free speech rights that will be upheld by the university.
When one person is exercising their First Amendment rights, another may feel themselves the victim of bias. Cut H8 Wichita State will strive to provide a forum where both parties can come together in a civil atmosphere for education and understanding.
Absent illegal or prohibited behavior that would be addressed under existing laws or university policies, the goal of this initiative is to respond through education and support.
鈥淚t鈥檚 important that we take care of all our students and show that we care by creating a system where they feel safe,鈥� Pierce says. 鈥淓ducation is the biggest motivator for us.鈥�
Cut H8 will officially begin with the Cut H8 Launch Party from 8-11 p.m. Friday, Aug. 25, in the Rhatigan Student Center courtyard.
All are welcome at the event, which will include pizza, T-shirts, a live DJ, games and door prizes.
If you have questions about Cut H8, email Rheanna Pierce at student.advocate@wichita.edu.