The free speech climate on Alabama's public four-year college and university campuses is mixed, according to a recent report from the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE).
Schools from around the country were categorized as green, yellow or red.
Among those earning an overall "green light" rating, given to schools that maintain policies that "do not seriously imperil free expression," was Auburn University, which regularly fares well in the FIRE survey.
SEE ALSO: Auburn second in 2024 national free speech rankings
Most schools in Alabama fell under the "yellow light" category, a rating for maintaining policies that impose vague regulations on expression. Those included were Alabama State University, Athens State University, Auburn University at Montgomery, Jacksonville State University, the University of Alabama, University of Alabama at Birmingham, the University of Alabama in Huntsville, the University of Montevallo, the University of North Alabama, the University of South Alabama and the University of West Alabama.
Alabama had two schools receive a so-called "red light" rating for maintaining policies that clearly and substantially restrict free speech. They were Alabama A&M and Troy University.
During an appearance on Newsmax TV's "Saturday Agenda," FIRE's Laura Beltz said Alabama A&M had an astounding four "red light" anti-free speech policies, including an IT policy with broad restrictions on electronic communications.
She added Troy University had three "red light" policies.
In May 2023, Troy drew FIRE's attention for an apparent behind-the-scenes effort to stymy the academic findings critical of the State of Alabama's economic incentives programs.
See report:
Jeff Poor is the editor in chief of 1819 News and host of "The Jeff Poor Show," heard Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-noon on Mobile's FM Talk 106.5. To connect or comment, email jeff.poor@1819News.com or follow him on Twitter @jeff_poor.
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