Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression Ranks 261 Colleges on Campus Free Speech Climate
The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression released its seventh annual College Free Speech Rankings, assessing 261 schools based on student surveys, policy reviews, and university decision-making. The report found that the national average for campus speech climate is a D-, with 121 schools receiving a failing grade. Only 24 universities received a grade of C or better. The rankings highlight a decline in political tolerance among students and a rise in self-censorship. Students reported that the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, and President Donald Trump are among the most difficult topics to discuss openly on campus. The University of Chicago claimed the top spot with a B- grade, while New York University received the lowest ranking with an F grade. In Pennsylvania, the average grade was an F, with the University of Pennsylvania being the only regional school to improve its position. The organization recommended that universities adopt the Chicago Principles and a policy of institutional neutrality to better protect academic freedom and foster robust debate.
Sources
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2027 College Free Speech Rankings: Kirk murder adds another difficult topic to dismal climate for student expression
FIRE | Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression
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Ohio State University, three other Ohio universities receive an 'F' in latest free speech rankings
Ohio Capital Journal