community | Campus Safe Words

TERM: community
RISK LEVEL: Moderate

Why It’s Risky

“Community” is a broadly used term in higher education, often intended to signal inclusion, cohesion, or shared values. However, in conservative-governed states, the term can raise concerns when used in contexts that imply ideological alignment, collective identity over individual merit, or institutional positions on race, gender, or equity. When paired with DEI language (e.g., “the LGBTQ+ community,” “the BIPOC community,” or “community of care”), it may be perceived as advancing progressive frameworks rather than maintaining institutional neutrality.

Common Critiques

Critics argue that “community” language can be vague, emotionally loaded, or used to mask advocacy for specific identity-based initiatives. Some lawmakers express concern that such usage implies moral obligation, social engineering, or political solidarity at odds with public education’s mission. Others view it as promoting collectivist thinking over individual achievement or responsibility, especially in administrative or promotional materials.

When It’s Still Appropriate

“Community” remains appropriate when referring to geographic areas (e.g., local community, surrounding community), functional groups (e.g., academic community, research community), or established usage within academic disciplines. It is also acceptable when used descriptively rather than ideologically, particularly in outreach, public service, or student affairs work.

Suggested Substitutes

1. Campus population (for internal references)

2. Group or cohort (in academic or programmatic contexts)

3. Local stakeholders (for town-gown relations)

4. Student body or faculty body (when specificity is needed)

5. Affiliated individuals or participants (in neutral institutional language)

Notes:
Use “community” with clarity and specificity. Avoid using it as a stand-in for identity-based groups or institutional values unless required for academic or legal reasons. When possible, define who is included in the term to prevent assumptions about shared beliefs or experiences. In politically sensitive environments, prefer functionally descriptive language that does not imply advocacy or group identity politics.