American University is committed to protecting free expression for all members of its community. Protections for free expression play an essential role in creating space for individuals to practice the ethos of inquiry, which is fundamental to the mission of a university.

Each member of this community balances their right to free inquiry with their responsibility to be open to listening and learning, respect the rights of others, and acknowledge each person’s human dignity. Through this balance, AU creates and maintains an environment that can advance knowledge, foster intellectual curiosity, encourage creative expression, build community, and empower lives of purpose, service, and leadership.

— from the AU Policy on Freedom of Expression & Expressive Conduct