Speech isn't punishable; actions are.

Although the University recently suspended its policy that increased punishment for conduct code violations motivated by intolerance toward race, gender, national origin, sexual orientation or political or religious beliefs, this does not mean the acts will be overlooked.

While punishment for acts of intolerance cannot be increased because of biased motivations, the act can still be punished under lesser criminal charges such as harassment, trespassing or assault. It is acceptable to punish actions, not ideas, and the University must make sure that offenders receive the punishment they deserve.

Victims of intolerance should also be aware that they still have many avenues open to them. Complaints can be filed through the Office of Residence Life, the Office of Conducts Standards and University Police Services where they will be investigated.

The University's decision follows on the heels of a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling that laws banning racially biased expressions are unconstitutional.

In enacting this the University has taken concrete steps in protecting freedom of expression, a freedom which has seen numerous challenges recently with the rash of campus speech codes across the country.

While the specific provision increasing penalties for violations motivated by intolerance has been removed, the University still maintains its policy statement on intolerance and remains dedicated to creating an educational climate devoid of intolerance, said Donald T. Suit, director of the Office of Conduct Standards and the Center for Conflict Management.

Although the University has been forced to ax a nationally recognized educational program for those who perpetuate intolerant acts, it must continue to educate the students about intolerance, and hopefully, make every possible offender think twice about committing intolerant acts.