Freedom of Expression Division

The Freedom of Expression division of NCA promotes the research and study of the understanding of free expression and the First Amendment. The division provides an academic home for legal, ethical, rhetorical, historical, and other approaches to the study and application of free expression in society. The division welcomes investigation, analysis and dialogue among communication scholars concerned with issues pertaining to free expression.

The division acknowledges achievements in scholarly excellence by awarding the Robert M. O’Neill top paper award as well as the top student paper. The division collaborates with and advocates for the Journal of First Amendment Studies, a peer-reviewed, NCA journal that publishes original essays which make a significant contribution to theory and/or policy on all aspects of free speech. If you would like to join the Freedom of Expression listserv for announcements, discussion and collaboration, please contact any of our division officers below.