OCR strives to communicate clearly how the civil rights laws apply in particular situations to help people understand their rights and education institutions understand their obligations. Clearly articulated standards enable OCR staff to make consistent compliance determinations that are legally supportable and based on a fair and thorough analysis of information.

A July 28, 2003, Dear Colleague Letter was issued to postsecondary institutions regarding the application of the civil rights laws and First Amendment issues. It confirms that OCR's regulations and policies do not require or prescribe speech, conduct or harassment codes that impair the exercise of rights protected under the First Amendment.