Defend free expression and promote engagement across differences

University Priority

Protecting Free Speech

In an increasingly polarized society, open dialogue is more important than ever.

Northwestern is addressing the growing barriers to discourse that hinder our progress as a society and is encouraging productive discussion across different corners of the university.

Center for Enlightened Disagreement

The recently launched center brings together top academics and leading thinkers to conduct research, identify best practices and train students and leaders on how to engage across difference and harness the power of diverse perspectives.

Committee on Free Expression and Institutional Speech

CIC works collaboratively with University partners such as Multicultural Student Affairs, Student Enrichment Services and Social Justice Education to cultivate inclusive learning settings through intentional engagement with difference.

Meet Some of Our Experts

Universities must be able to respectfully debate the difficult topics of the day.

From research to application, Northwestern is equipping our community with tools and the opportunity to bridge the divides between us.

Nour Kteily

Co-director of the Dispute Resolution Research Center and the founding co-director of the Center for Enlightened Disagreement Kteily specializes in negotiation, conflict resolution and inter-group relations.

Eli Finkel

Finkel, founding co-director of the Center for Enlightened Disagreement, studies romantic relationships and American politics.

Heidi Kitrosser

Kitrosser writes, speaks and consults widely on the topics of free speech law, separation of powers and the constitutional law of federal government secrecy.

Highlights

Learn about Northwestern’s efforts to facilitate respectful dialogue.

Attracting and supporting all students

Northwestern employs a variety of strategies that support our commitment to welcoming students from all walks of life.

Recognizing faculty who nurture belonging

The Daniel I. Linzer Award celebrates exemplar individuals or groups who work collaboratively to build a sense of belonging at Northwestern.

Encouraging thoughtful teaching and learning

Northwestern’s Principles of Inclusive Teaching are a set of pedagogical guidelines and materials to help instructors serve the needs of all students, regardless of their backgrounds or identities.