The University of Alabama System Board of Trustees adopted a resolution last week expressing its commitment to institutional neutrality and freedom of speech and expression.
A university spokesperson said that the UA System will remain neutral on political and social issues unless the issue directly affects core operations.
According to the UA System, it is "dedicated to safeguarding free speech, academic freedom and the educational experience of its students."
According to a statement from the UA system, the Board's formalization of the "UA System's longstanding practice of maintaining institutional neutrality will ensure its three universities continue to serve as welcoming environments to all people and neutral forums for scholarly debate and free and open inquiry. "
"It is not a university's place to tell people what to think on the issues of the day; rather, it is a university's place to foster an environment where these issues can be explored and where campus community members have the freedom to share their thoughts, and hopefully learn from others," Interim Chancellor Sid Trant said. "Opportunities for civil discourse are more important than ever, as is our commitment to free speech and – importantly – treating all with compassion and respect. As a result of our Board's action, our universities will continue to serve as objective places of learning and inquiry for all people of all backgrounds."
UA system school rankings in the 2025 College Free Speech Rankings, released last week by the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression and College Pulse, were:
University of Alabama at Birmingham (40th, slightly above average)
University of Alabama in Huntsville (49th, average)
University of Alabama (69th, average)
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