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ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ 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.

ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ 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

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, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ is equipping our community with tools and the opportunity to bridge the divides between us.

Headshot of 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.
Headshot of Eli Finkel

Finkel, founding co-director of the Center for Enlightened Disagreement, studies romantic relationships and American politics.
Headshot of 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 ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½â€™s efforts to facilitate respectful dialogue.

Recognizing faculty who nurture diversity

Recognizing faculty who nurture diversity

The Daniel I. Linzer Award for Faculty Excellence in Diversity and Equity celebrates exemplary individuals or groups who work collaboratively to build a more diverse, inclusive and equitable climate at ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½.

News

See ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½â€™s new developments in support of this priority.

Students flock together in pigeon-inspired group show

MFA graduate bree gant on how several mediums shape her artistic practice

One Book One ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ committee seeks recommendations for 2025-2026

Author Louise Erdrich will deliver a keynote on Oct. 15; her novel tells a story about tribal treaty rights

Inside the reissue of Leon Forrest’s novel ‘Divine Days’

Shalom Ikhena and Claire Throckmorton addressed fellow graduates during Commencement