From the quad to the classroom, liberal arts colleges and universities provide the mechanism to learn and a platform to safely express a variety of opposing viewpoints. In an era of me vs. you, us vs. them, breaking down chronic polarization and safeguarding civil discourse on our campuses and in our communities has never been more critical. Democracy thrives when campuses are well-functioning vehicles for free thought and expression. Yet, the threat of speech suppression endures.
The Israel-Hamas War and the 2024 Presidential Campaign have been catalysts in increasing divisiveness on campus, as university administrations from California to New Jersey choose censorship over the steady exchange of thoughts and ideas. Without this critical and open dialogue, democracy is threatened. Over the last decade, philanthropy has funneled billions of dollars into pioneering organizations focused on restoring this discourse and strengthening our democracy. The F. M. Kirby Foundation is proud to partner with many of these nonprofits that are truly “on fire” in their commitment to championing free speech in our colleges and universities.
The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression‘s mission is to defend and sustain the individual rights of all Americans to free speech and free thought — the most essential qualities of liberty. Recognizing that colleges and universities play a vital role in preserving free thought within a free society, FIRE places a special emphasis on defending the individual rights of students and faculty members on our nation’s campuses. Through legal advocacy and campus outreach, FIRE supports students, faculty, and administrators who encounter censorship or punitive actions for expressing viewpoints or pursuing research in contentious areas. By advocating for policies that protect freedom of thought, FIRE ensures that academic institutions can serve as arenas for open, critical discourse — a pillar of maintaining a robust democratic system.
“The F. M. Kirby Foundation’s more than two decades of support has ensured that FIRE has the resources to help anyone on-campus — and beyond — whose speech is threatened, no matter their politics, religion or identity,” said Alex Morey, FIRE’s Vice President of Campus Advocacy. “If it’s protected, we defend it. Period.”
If you haven’t heard of FIRE, there’s a good chance you may have read their College Free Speech Rankings, which rate colleges and universities on their commitment to free expression. Staff compile insights from thousands of students, assessing campus policies, student perceptions of their own free speech rights, and institutional practices related to speech. These rankings help prospective students, parents, and policymakers make informed decisions, while encouraging universities to take a second look at policies that may threaten academic freedoms. As FIRE continues to expand its influence, its work serves as both a safeguard and a reminder of the vital role free expression plays within the academic community. The F. M. Kirby Foundation is proud to have partnered with FIRE since 2001.
Like FIRE, another partner organization, the American Council of Trustees and Alumni, or ACTA, is shaping the future of higher education by encouraging rigorous standards of free expression and intellectual diversity. ACTA collaborates closely with trustees, administrators, and even policymakers to ensure universities remain committed to free and open debate. Through programs like its Campus Freedom Initiative, ACTA empowers trustees to resist pressures that threaten academic freedom, providing guidance on adopting policies that protect it. In a climate where polarized views often muffle discourse, ACTA’s work supports a culture where different perspectives can flourish and be constructively debated.
“Freedom of speech is the bedrock of American freedom and the lifeblood of teaching, learning, and research at our colleges and universities,” said Michael Poliakoff, President of ACTA. “All institutions should find ways to move beyond the echo chambers, the monoculture that so miseducates students by seducing them to believe that coercion and intimidation are more legitimate than engaging in dialogue and debate with those with whom they disagree.”
ACTA’s What Will They Learn? report further emphasizes its dedication to academic freedom by evaluating core curricula in universities across the country. This report assesses schools on their commitment to providing a balanced, comprehensive education that includes exposure to a variety of viewpoints and disciplines. By publishing these findings, ACTA brings transparency to campus policies and curriculum standards, offering students, parents, and alumni valuable insight into how well institutions uphold academic freedom.
Exposure to opposing ideas is one thing, but getting two people in a room to debate the issues comes with its own set of challenges. Thankfully, one organization is helping bridge that divide, one conversation at a time. Founded in 2016 as a civil prescription for a highly contentious election year, Braver Angels is making strides in advancing cordial political conversation on college campuses. By engaging students in structured discussions that encourage understanding across ideological divides, Braver Angels promotes a culture of respect and open-mindedness. Their workshops and events are designed to equip students with tools to engage with differing viewpoints, constructively. This approach not only helps to break down barriers, but also empowers students to develop critical thinking and communication skills essential to navigate complex issues.
“You don’t really know your own viewpoints unless you know the best objections to it,” said Bill Doherty, co-founder of Braver Angels, discussing the newest initiative from the College Debates & Civil Discourse Alliance, a partnership with ACTA and BridgeUSA. “This workshop promotes a kind of ‘passionate humility,’ a willingness to advocate with conviction for the best solutions to processing problems, while accepting the uncertainties inherent in all public policies.”
In addition to direct engagement, Braver Angels, along with its College Debates & Civil Discourse Alliance partners, collaborates with student organizations and administration to create environments where free expression is valued and respected. Their programs cultivate student leaders who can lead discussions and initiatives that promote constructive dialogue within their campuses. By creating peer-led spaces for open conversations, Braver Angels encourages a shift away from the prevalent and often toxic “us vs. them” mentality, fostering a more inclusive atmosphere where diverse perspectives can coexist. As a result, students learn to appreciate the importance of empathy and collaboration, preparing them to be active and informed participants in a democratic society.
In today’s polarized environment, preserving platforms where free thought and open discussion can thrive is critically important. Organizations like FIRE, ACTA, and Braver Angels help foster environments that uphold the tenets of free speech and academic freedom, building a future where college campuses can serve as vital arenas for civil discourse and democratic engagement without threat. The Foundation is committed to supporting partners who champion these values. Through these partnerships, we can once again look forward to campuses where students and educators alike feel empowered to share ideas, question beliefs, and strengthen the democratic foundations of society.
