“A university is an open community, a place where freedom of expression is uncompromisingly protected and where civility is powerfully affirmed.” Ernest Boyer, Campus Life: In Search of Community, Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching (March 14, 1990).

First Amendment at Texas A&M

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.

Source: First Amendment Annotated, United States Constitution

Texas A&M University is committed to being a community where the free and open exchange of ideas and information is valued, promoted, and encouraged. Fundamental to the educational mission in the State of Texas, we recognize all five First Amendment freedoms. 

Freedom of Speech

An individual or a community may articulate their opinions and ideas without fear of retaliation, censorship, or legal sanction.

Freedom of the Press 

The right to report news or circulate opinion without censorship from the government. The press serves the governed, not the governors. A free media functions as a watchdog that can investigate and report on government wrongdoing.

Freedom of Assembly

The government may not abridge the right of the people to peaceably assemble.

Freedom of Religion

The government may not establish a state religion or prohibit the free exercise of religion. All Americans have the right to practice their religion freely, without interference or persecution by the government.

Freedom of Petition

People have the right to ask the government at any level to right a wrong or correct a problem.

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