As first-year and transfer students start classes this fall at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, they must watch a new presentation about freedom of expression on campus.
The seven videos cover the First Amendment, academic freedom, campus speakers, talking across differences, offensive speech, activism and civil disobedience. Chancellor Jennifer Mnookin provides introductory and closing remarks.
“To disagree with one another, with your professors, and even with me, it’s part of learning to think critically,” Mnookin says in one video. “I also ask you to disagree productively, with respect for our common humanity.”
UW-Madison created its “Free Expression” training as part of the deal reached in December between lawmakers and the Universities of Wisconsin over funding and diversity, equity and inclusion programs. UW system leaders agreed to “develop and implement on all campuses a module regarding freedom of expression for entering undergraduate students.”