We understand that a recent proposal to a foundation was declined due to concerns about the mission and methods of Families Advocating for Campus Equality (FACE). Specifically, there appears to be a belief that FACE minimizes allegations of sexual harassment and assault, and that our work might re-traumatize victims or reflect bias against them. We would like to address these concerns and clarify our organization’s purpose, values, and approach.

FACE is only in existence because thousands of individuals across this country have either witnessed or experienced the disturbing erosion of our civil liberties in campus disciplinary procedures. Our advocacy is dedicated to ensuring that allegations of misconduct are respected and addressed through transparent and equitable disciplinary processes. Our guiding principle is that justice can only be achieved when processes are rooted in fairness and impartiality to expose the truth. We emphasize the importance of four foundational pillars in every case:

1. Voice – All individuals involved must have an opportunity to be heard by impartial decision makers.

2. Transparency – Maintaining open and clear processes to build confidence and reliability in the outcomes.

3. Fairness of Process – Procedures should be equitable, consistent, and devoid of prejudice and conflicts of interest.

4. Impartial Decision-Making – Promoting fact-based investigations and judgments to uncover the truth.

Contrary to the concerns raised, FACE does not, and has never, minimized the severity of sexual harassment or assault allegations. Our work is focused on fostering systems that seek the truth while taking measures to protect all parties from further harm. Far from re-traumatizing victims, we advocate for a balanced approach where all individuals are treated with dignity and respect, ensuring that complainants’ experiences are acknowledged and investigated, while also protecting respondents from prejudgment or unfair treatment.

Our work is not about disbelief or disregard for victims; rather, it is about upholding principles of procedural fairness, which is critical for maintaining public confidence in any disciplinary or judicial system. By advocating for these principles, FACE seeks to create environments where all individuals feel safe and heard.

We realize it can be extremely difficult for most people to imagine how dangerous the lack of civil liberties can be during such investigations and adjudications, so we offer scenarios (below) where you can use the power of your imagination to get a sense of this danger.

Thank you for reading to this point and considering this clarification.

You have been accused of misconduct…read more

You make allegations of misconduct…read more