How to Speak Up
Fight for a school community where you can speak, read, and learn freely
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Academic freedom isn’t just for teachers. It protects your right to explore, question, and engage with diverse ideas. Speaking up for academic freedom as a student shapes your school into one that values curiosity and free & open dialogue.
Academic freedom includes your right to: ask questions and express opinions respectfully in class, access a diverse range of books and ideas, participate in student journalism without undue censorship, and organize or speak on topics no matter how controversial they are.
Ways to Speak Up
Ways to Speak Up
Photo Credit: Getty Images
Photo credit: Dulce M. Marquez/ NYT
Photo credit: Learning Forward
In the Classroom
In the Classroom
Ask questions when something is removed from the curriculum, such as: “Why can’t we read that book?”
Share your thoughts during class discussions, even if your view is different. Your courage encourages others to speak too, breaking away from echo chambers.
Suggest discussion topics or independent projects around issues you’re passionate about.
Student Media
Student Media
Write for the school newspaper, start a blog.
Cover free speech issues affecting students or your school.
Know your rights under laws like the Student Press Law Center’s guidelines.
School Leadership
School Leadership
Email or request meetings with administrators to ask: Why certain materials are banned or limited?
Bring data or student testimonials to show how censorship impacts learning
Attend or speak during public comment sections during school board meetings. Bring your experience: how did a book or conversation help you grow?
Read Unite Against Book Ban's [guide to library & school board meetings]
Speak for Your Teachers
Speak for Your Teachers
Many teachers are restricted in what they can say or teach, so ask how you can support them!
Write letters or petitions to show student support for academic freedom (use respectful language, but don’t be afraid to take a stand).
Photo Credit: DAVID PROEBER / Associated Press
Advocacy
Advocacy
Start a book club or reading group for censored books.
Plan a school event during Freedom to Learn Month or Banned Books Week.
Create posters, digital resources, or morning announcements promoting open dialogue.
Check out NCAC's Kid's Right to Read book censorship Action Kit!
Join Free Speech Campaigns
Join Free Speech Campaigns
Like this one! Freedom to Read [sign your name here]
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