As a member of the University community, you enjoy certain rights and privileges. Among these are the right to be free from discrimination and sexual harassment, the right to discuss and exchange ideas, the right to be involved in University governance, and the right to privacy.

Privileges like these are accompanied by an obligation to live by the rules and policies established for the orderly operation of the University. Policies against plagiarism and other forms of academic dishonesty, residence hall rules, financial aid eligibility requirements, and traffic and parking regulations are examples of the many rules that will govern your life at the University.

You may have come from a community that was fairly uniform in its values, the cultures and nationalities represented, and even the religious beliefs practiced. The University embraces and celebrates its many forms of diversity. This may be your first opportunity to meet, get to know, and work closely with individuals who have backgrounds, cultures, life experiences, and worldviews that are different from your own. Your educational experience will be enriched by the diversity you find at the University—the lessons of greatest value come not only from books and lectures but also from one another through the sharing of different perspectives and ideas. To best take advantage of this unique opportunity, respect and open-mindedness are necessary. In this, the University is guided by a single principle that is reaffirmed in its publications:

The University of Iowa prohibits discrimination in employment, educational programs, and activities on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy, disability, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, service in the U.S. military, sexual orientation, gender identity, associational preferences, or any other classification that deprives the person of consideration as an individual. The university also affirms its commitment to providing equal opportunities and equal access to university facilities.

In accordance with this principle, the rights of all individuals to participate in University functions, to use University facilities, to be assured of their physical safety, and to express themselves freely are protected.

No one has the right to impose upon the rights of another and no one should have to experience any abusive behavior because of their race, creed, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy, disability, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, service in the U.S. military, sexual orientation, gender identity, or associational preference. This principle clearly distinguishes the University community from other communities. It serves as the foundation, making possible the goals of an education for life.