Campus policy restated on display of religious symbols

The University Assembly, in its approval of Cornell's policy regarding the display of religious symbols, including those related to religious holidays, noted, "Cornell is a diverse community in which individual expression of identity is encouraged within the bounds of propriety and respect for the beliefs of others," and added, "due to the magnitude of diversity at Cornell, it is impossible to define all of the religious symbols that individual community members recognize."

The policy emphasizes: "Members of the university community are reminded of the pluralism of religious beliefs held by individuals. Each member of the community is reminded to be conscious of and respect the sensitivities of others in the display of religious symbols within his/her own individual work area or living quarters."

The policy sets these guidelines:

• The university administration shall not sponsor nor provide direct financial support for the display of religious symbols.

• Campus groups desiring to sponsor celebrative and/or educational displays utilizing religious symbols shall have full access to appropriate campus display areas, subject to regular administrative procedures governing the use of these areas.

• Any display areas which are normally available to all campus groups shall also be available for the display of religious symbols, subject to regular administrative procedures.

• The policy prohibits special or temporary display areas for religious symbols.

• Individuals may privately display symbols in their work areas or living quarters.

• Areas which would give the impression that the symbol is associated with the university, particularly the external surfaces of buildings, may not be used for displays of religious symbols.

These guidelines will be enforced by the Office of the Senior Vice President, 317 Day Hall, 255-6657. An appeals process has been set up by the Assembly.