Ann Arbor Times

The University of Michigan is set to launch an Institute for Civil Discourse, aimed at enhancing debate and dialogue across various ideologies and political perspectives on campus and beyond. This initiative was announced by President Santa J. Ono.

The institute will not be housed within a single school or college but will instead operate independently as a resource for the university's Ann Arbor, Dearborn, and Flint campuses. President Ono emphasized the importance of civil discourse in learning and problem-solving during the December Board of Regents meeting where the announcement was made. "We learn by confronting different arguments and different perspectives. Michigan is the place to do this—to show our community and nation that civil discourse is not just possible, it is the very best way to learn and to solve problems. It is fundamental to our democracy," he stated.

In the coming months, President Ono plans to search for an inaugural director, establish an advisory board comprising academic leaders with diverse ideological viewpoints, and seek financial support from individuals and foundations representing various perspectives.

This development follows a series of efforts undertaken this year by the university to promote diversity of thought and free expression. In January, the regents approved Principles on Diversity of Thought and Freedom of Expression to underline the university's commitment to fostering diverse ideas and engaging constructively with differing viewpoints.