NIFI Dialogue Series – Free Speech & The Inclusive Campus

Conversations about free speech on campus are often framed in opposition to diversity and inclusion and have spawned controversies, protests, and even violence. In 2017, a much-cited survey of more than 3,000 college students conducted by Gallup and the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation presented diversity and inclusion as directly opposite free speech. The survey asked students which issue they felt was more important; 53% chose inclusion, and 46% chose free speech. In today’s contentious and divided political environment, what should colleges and universities do to meet the roles and responsibilities of higher education to foster the campus community we want?

This meeting will explore options for creating a sense of community on college campuses using a National Issues Forum discussion guide and guidance from trained facilitators. During the 2- hour session, you will explore questions like the following in a structured way with other members of the public:

• Are free speech and an inclusive campus in opposition to each other? Do we have to give up one to have the other?
• How do we balance individuals’ rights with the college’s responsibilities?
• Is this the campus community we want? What is the role of institutional leaders versus individuals in creating or changing campus culture?

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