University Policy Library: Freedom of Expression

Relevant Excerpt

NAU honors its commitment to free expression, as guaranteed by the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. NAU is a public institution of higher education, and public universities are considered to be the quintessential “marketplace of ideas” – where both the campus community and members of the public may engage in expressive activities. And, NAU recognizes that freedom of expression is integral to the purpose of the university, whose primary goal is education. Many speakers use our campus, and some may have messages which seem inconsistent with the mission and values of the institution. In the “marketplace of ideas” not all ideas will resonate with the listener, and some ideas may even seem distasteful or offensive. NAU encourages both the listener and the speaker to thoughtfully exercise this important freedom.