FREE EXPRESSION

In addition, as a public university, UW-Madison is, as a matter of both law and institutional values, dedicated to the First Amendment of the United States Constitution and values freedom of expression as an essential part of its educational mission. As a public institution, we are, in fact, legally obligated to adhere to the First Amendment. (Most private universities are also committed to freedom of speech and freedom of expression, but the First Amendment does not apply to them directly because they are not state entities.)... Here at UW-Madison, we believe that the ability to exchange, consider, and challenge different ideas is central to the educational process. This means that those who come to UW-Madison must be prepared to have their beliefs and ideas challenged, sometimes in ways they find uncomfortable or, in some instances, even offensive. We recognize that it can be difficult and sometimes even painful to hear points of view with which individuals powerfully disagree...