During a lunch forum held in C116 on May 26, U-High students questioned Interim Director of Schools Ethan Bueno de Mesquita over aspects of the school’s recent viewpoint-neutral education policy, including whether it would platform homophobic or racist remarks. Dr. Bueno de Mesquita explained that the policy is designed to expand open discussions and teach students how to engage in what he calls “democratic practice,” rather than to promote harmful rhetoric.

Approximately 45 students attended the event. 

Elaborating on the policy’s purpose, Dr. Bueno de Mesquita argued that the new approach frees up student discussion, rather than restricting it. Without viewpoint neutrality, he explained, it is difficult to pursue and understand different points of view and have open conversations. 

“One of the ways that educators can inadvertently shut down discussion is by signaling, basically, what they think a good person should say,” he said. “It’s then much harder for students to speak up for a different point of view.”

Student questioners pushed back on whether the contested issues mentioned in the policy’s FAQ section — such as immigration enforcement — can be separated from questions of respecting identity. Students expressed concern that if points of view attacking a student’s identity are platformed in the name of neutrality, the school could struggle to uphold its mission of a respectful, tolerant and inclusive community.

Dr. Bueno de Mesquita refuted the idea that the policy is a form of censorship

“The goal is the exact opposite,” he said. “The goal is to open space for us to talk about hard things in ways that invite diversity of opinion and make everyone feel free, in a respectful manner, to share their views.”