Core Values

HASTAC was founded in 2002 as a voluntary, dues-free social network with the motto: “Difference is our operating system.” Unlike much social media, HASTAC.org thrives because of zero tolerance for any violation of our core principles of respect and equity. Trolls are removed from the website. HASTAC does not share user data and works diligently to maintain the privacy and security of its data. The student-led HASTAC Scholars are dedicated to modeling non-hierarchical, egalitarian values for higher education. All participants in HASTAC events, including members of the audience, must respect HASTAC’s long-standing community values and our rigorous commitment to scholarship, intellectual exchange, and academic discourse that is free of bias or discrimination, especially racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, ableism, or other forms of prejudice