Shut down MAC Confessions

Victory

This petition made change with 7 supporters!

The Issue

This petition is respectfully submitted to request a formal review of the continued operation of MAC Confessions, an anonymous online platform that has repeatedly been used to publish rumors, personal attacks, derogatory remarks, and other content that may harm the dignity, safety, and well-being of members of the MAC community.

We recognize that students who knowingly submit false, malicious, or harmful content are responsible for their own actions. However, responsibility does not end with the sender. Every submission reaches the campus community only after it has been approved and published by the page's administrator. While the administrator may not author the content, the decision to publish it amplifies its reach and influence. With the authority to publish comes the responsibility to exercise sound judgment over what is allowed to be shared.

After reviewing the MAC Student Handbook (Revised 2020), we believe that the operation and publication practices of MAC Confessions, if managed by a student subject to the Student Handbook, may warrant administrative review under the following provisions:

  • Section 2.11 – Offensive Behavior, including the use of language and acts that are disrespectful or vulgar.
  • Section 2.17 – Social Network Offense, including the posting of cryptic and malicious messages against the institution, its administrators, faculty, staff, and students.
  • Section 2.18 – Bullying, including repeated verbal, social, psychological, and cyberbullying, such as spreading rumors and the use of digital platforms to shame, intimidate, or emotionally harm another person.

This petition does not declare that any individual has violated these provisions. Rather, we respectfully request that the SSO (Student Services Office) determine whether the operation and publication practices of MAC Confessions are consistent with the standards of conduct expected of members of the MAC community and whether appropriate administrative action is warranted.

This petition is not intended to silence students or discourage constructive discussion. Anonymous platforms can provide opportunities for students to express concerns and share experiences. However, anonymity should never be used as a shield for harassment, rumor-spreading, public humiliation, or the publication of unverified accusations. Freedom of expression carries corresponding responsibilities, particularly when the exercise of that freedom may cause harm to the rights, dignity, and well-being of others.

For these reasons, we respectfully call upon the College Administration to conduct a fair and impartial review of MAC Confessions, determine whether its operation complies with institutional policies and the Student Handbook, and take whatever action it deems appropriate to protect the dignity, welfare, safety, and rights of every member of the MAC community.

This petition is submitted in good faith with one objective: to foster a campus culture founded on respect, accountability, responsible communication, and the protection of every student's dignity.

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