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Northwestern University

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.

students talking

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.
northwestern rock

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.

Highlights

Learn about Northwestern’s efforts to facilitate respectful dialogue.

News

See Northwestern’s new developments in support of this priority.