OPINION: We Need Academic Freedom and Expression in Schools
M. Isabel Medina | 19 April 2024 | The Maroon
The American Bar Association recently adopted a new accreditation standard for law schools (public or private) requiring them to have policies in place that protect academic freedom and freedom of expression for faculty, staff and students. The standard applies to all persons teaching law school courses regardless of status and applies to research activities, publications, law school governance, public service responsibilities and teaching. Law school policies must: (1) Protect the rights of faculty, students, and staff to communicate ideas that may be
controversial or unpopular, including through robust debate, demonstrations, or protests; and (2) Proscribe disruptive conduct that hinders free expression by preventing or substantially interfering with the carrying out of law school functions or approved activities, such as
classes, meetings, interviews, ceremonies, and public events, as stated in ABA Standard 208….