Panel 1 - Free Speech on Campus: A Delicate Balancing Test

Go Back

Session Type: Subsessions

Session Capacity: N/A

Location: Hilton New Orleans Riverside

Room: Jefferson Ballroom

Floor: Third Floor

The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects speech even if it is offensive. Recent incidents on college campuses nationwide, however, have left administrations grappling with how to bridge freedom of expression and the student experience.
This session will address free speech on campus; the potential challenges, obstacles and benefits. We hope to engender robust discussion that will address questions such as:
1) What can/should be done to limit hate speech?
2) Should there be no limitations placed on speech on campuses? Why or why not?
3) What are the fiscal and safety considerations for academic institutions when inviting controversial speakers to campus?

At the conclusion of this panel, those in attendance will be enlightened and better-equipped to handle this important issue both practically and intellectually.

Recommended Reading: Erwin Chemerinsky & Howard Gillman, Free Speech on Campus (2017)