The University of Minnesota at Twin Cities is considering a set of statements on free speech that, if passed, could be the strongest such affirmation seen on any campus. Yet the statements’ future is uncertain, given concerns -- especially those from students -- about free speech being “paramount” to other values. At the same time, it’s unclear whether free expression can truly be protected without declaring it paramount.
“Ideas are the lifeblood of a free society and universities are its beating heart,” reads a statement passed by a majority of members of the powerful Faculty Consultative Committee and now under debate before the Faculty Senate. “If freedom of speech is undermined on a university campus, it is not safe anywhere. The University of Minnesota resolves that the freedom of speech is, and will always be, safe at this institution.”...
Most notably, the actions document proposes the creation of a free speech “advocate” or watchdog charged with “ensuring freedom of expression is respected and protected during any investigation” involving free speech issues on campus. That role could be assigned to an independent officer or a person or committee within the existing faculty governance structure...
Regarding concerns about climate, the addendum says, “There are many steps the university may appropriately and lawfully take to create a welcoming climate, including by fostering diversity in its faculty and staff. But no person or group, merely by claiming offense, may bring down the disciplinary machinery of the university to prohibit or punish speech on that account.”...
Full story at https://www.insidehighered.com/news/2016/05/10/minnesota-faculty-senate-ponders-policy-making-free-speech-paramount
UPDATE: Similar issues seem to have arisen at Emory U:
https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/volokh-conspiracy/wp/2016/05/10/emory-university-open-expression-committee-opinion-on-trump-chalkings-mein-trumpf-poster-and-other-matters/
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