New code of conduct brings mixed reactions

Administrators, professors and students all have their own opinions on the new Code of Student Conduct, which took effect July 1. University President Judith Rodin said she is enthusiastic about the new code, which does not punish the use of racial epithets by students. "I'm pleased to see a code that is largely student drafted and does not have a speech code," Rodin said. She added that she does not plan to change the new code, which was adopted by her predecessor, former interim President Claire Fagin. She did say, however, that if the need arose, she would re-examine it. Assistant Vice President for University Life Larry Moneta said the new code is a vast improvement over the previous one. "It finds a balance between individual rights and group rights," Moneta said. "It's very hard to convey an institution's values in language and attempt to find words that mean the same thing to every one." While he realizes that different groups will have difficulties with the new code, he said it is the best attempt to compromise between the two sides of the debate -- for and against a speech code. "It's an attempt to walk on a middle ground and satisfy the community at large," Moneta said. Not everyone was as enthusiastic as Rodin or Moneta. Political Science Professor Will Harris said he was disappointed by the new code because of its vagueness. "I don't think much of it," said Harris, who is also the moderator for the University Council. "It glosses over details and it leaves too much open for interpretation." Harris said he was pleased that students participated in drafting the new code. But, he said he does not think the code goes far enough in increasing students' participation and rights in the University. In addition, Harris said he does not see the new code insuring future participation in rule-making for students. "It doesn't articulate student rights strongly enough," he added. Harris said he is very concerned about how the new code addresses the issue of free speech. "The new code is so vague on free speech," he said. "Haste may have resulted in glossing over fundamental questions. The old policy was more constrained on what it said then the new one." Black Student League President Robyn Kent also has mixed feelings about the new code. "I don't agree with it," Kent said. "I'm glad that there's something, as opposed to nothing." The College senior said she did not think the new code is an "improvement." "There's not really a difference between this [new code] and nothing," she said. Kent said she continues to be very frustrated with the state of race relations on campus. She said she feels the new code is just an attempt by the administration to appease both sides of the debate without taking a firm stand.

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