One Year Later: The Aftermath of September 11

Across the nation, in response to the atrocities of September 11, 2001, and to the debates and discussions that have occurred in their wake, many college and university administrators are acting to inhibit the free expression of the citizens of a free society. Some administrations continue selective repression as if nothing had occurred: in the name of preventing "offense," they seek to stifle the views with which they disagree. Other administrations, more careerist in times of crisis than at other moments, and unburdened by moral principle, want to avoid scandalizing broader public opinion. In both cases, they are willing to continue to sacrifice American liberty.

After decades of ignoring or denying the harm done by speech codes, the AAUP now issues a statement on free speech and academic freedom. Where have they been?