Five ways university presidents can prove their commitment to free speech

August 25, 2023 1 min read

Originally published June 25, 2019
Greg Lukianoff

Excerpt: With the targets constantly shifting, what are some effective steps college presidents can take right now to fight censorship, regardless of where it originates? Presidents like to say they are in favor of free speech, but few have presented a plan of action that would improve the state of free speech for their students and faculty members.
The following five suggestions provide a path for presidents to prove their commitment to freedom of expression and academic freedom by leading with basic, clear, and reasonable changes:
1. Stop Violating the law . . . .
2. Pre-commit / recommit to free speech and inquiry . . . .
3. Defend the free speech rights of your students and faculty loudly, clearly, and early . . . .
4. Teach free speech from day one . . . .
5. Be scholars: Collect data . . . .

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