Elite Universities Rank Lowest for Free Speech

The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE), in collaboration with College Pulse, released its annual rankings on free speech at U.S. colleges, surveying nearly 59,000 students across 257 institutions. The University of Tulsa was ranked 23rd and noted for its above-average speech climate and a green spotlight rating. Conversely, Harvard, Columbia, and New York University were ranked among the worst, receiving 'abysmal' ratings due to significant protests and administrative failures in handling free speech issues. Harvard particularly stood out with a score rounded up to zero, marking it the lowest for the second consecutive year. The rankings underscore ongoing tensions and challenges surrounding free speech on college campuses, especially in light of recent geopolitical conflicts. These findings highlight a broader concern about the state of First Amendment protections in higher education.