"Just words?" Student group at UWM drafts a list of words believed to be microaggressions

MILWAUKEE -- It is a way to be kind or is it stifling freedom of speech? A group of University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee students has a list of words it wants to make you think twice about using.

The student staff at the Inclusive Excellence Center created a campaign called "Just Words" -- and drafted a list of words believed to be microaggressions.

"It's something the students wanted to create so that there would be greater awareness and greater appreciation about the impact that words have on people," said Vice Chancellor Tom Luljak.

The program is aimed at making students aware of phrases that are seemingly hurtful. The goal is to eliminate hateful language.

Tom Luljak

While supporting the efforts, Luljak made it quite clear, it's not a list of forbidden words.

"We believe very strongly in freedom of speech. People have the right to say whatever they wish," said Luljak.

But ironically, the director of the Inclusive Excellence Center tweeted some obscene words on a tweet from Gov. Mike Huckabee along with choice words about the Democratic debate. The colorful language has received quite a big of backlash.

"We believe we should all act professionally especially when representing the university. We believe it's critical that people represent what we stand for, which is civility and professionalism," said Luljak.

The vice chancellor says the school has gotten some emails about the controversy. But Luljak would not elaborate, saying he cannot discuss personnel matters. Luljak did say the school has opened an investigation into the complaints involving the Inclusive Excellence Center.