The University of New Mexico (UNM) has received an "F" grade for its free speech environment, according to a recent report. The institution ranked 139th out of 257 universities nationwide in the 2026 College Free Speech Rankings. This evaluation comes from the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE), a nonpartisan organization that advocates for free speech on college campuses.
The report highlights concerns among students regarding their comfort in expressing ideas and the potential for confrontation on campus. This assessment is based on various factors, including student surveys, campus policies, and documented speech-related incidents.
Key Takeaways
- UNM received an 'F' grade in free speech, ranking 139 out of 257 universities.
- The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE) conducted the study.
- Student surveys cited fear of confrontation and discomfort in expressing beliefs.
- International graduate students reported feeling less safe and more concerned about their immigration status.
- UNM stated its commitment to free speech principles and fostering debate.
UNM's Ranking and Overall Score
The 2026 College Free Speech Rankings report, released by FIRE, assigned UNM an overall score of 57 out of 100. This score places the university in the bottom half of institutions evaluated across the United States. The organization emphasizes the importance of open dialogue and the protection of constitutional rights within academic settings.
FIRE is known for challenging what it calls "free speech zones" on college campuses, arguing that free expression should not be limited to designated areas. Their reports aim to provide a comprehensive look at how well universities uphold free speech principles.
Report Methodology
- 180 UNM students surveyed: The survey gathered student perspectives on various aspects of free speech.
- Six key categories: These included Openness and Political Tolerance, Administrative Support, Comfort Expressing Ideas, Self-Censorship, and Disruptive Conduct.
- Campus policies: An evaluation of official university rules and guidelines related to speech.
- Speech-related controversies: Analysis of past incidents involving free speech on campus.
Student Perspectives on Campus Speech
KOAT Action 7 News spoke with UNM students on Thursday, October 9, 2025, to gather their reactions to the report's findings. Many expressed disappointment and concern about the campus environment for open expression.
"It's a fear of confrontation. If two people who have different beliefs were to speak out, they will have a disagreement, and that might escalate to something more," UNM student Angelo Hernandez told KOAT. "All students should feel comfortable to speak their mind on their beliefs on campus. Honestly, the score we got is disappointing."
Hernandez also reflected on his own experience, noting that his ability to speak freely might be a privilege not shared by all. "I speak my mind and will stand up for what I believe in. I feel comfortable speaking my mind on my beliefs and what I feel is right. I know a lot of people don't have that strength, you could call it, or trust in themselves to really convey the message of their beliefs," he added.
Concerns Among International Graduate Students
The report's findings resonate particularly with some segments of the student population. Grant Block, a UNM graduate student, shared his perspective, highlighting the heightened vulnerability felt by international students.
"The score is pretty surprising and disappointing to me. My ability to speak freely and feel comfortable in my free speech is a relatively privileged stance. I know quite a lot of international graduate student workers, who are not, I feel, not as comfortable," Grant Block told KOAT. "It just doesn't feel as safe as I do. From some pretty real threats — they're going through their social media and making sure it's clean and really worried about the immigration status."
This concern among international students about their social media activity and immigration status underscores a significant challenge for the university. It suggests that the perceived free speech environment can have real-world implications for their academic and personal lives.
University's Official Response
In response to the FIRE report, the University of New Mexico issued a statement reaffirming its dedication to free speech principles. The statement emphasizes the university's role in fostering open debate and protecting diverse viewpoints.
"The University of New Mexico is firmly committed to the principles of free speech and values its role as a public square for debate, a marketplace of ideas, and a place to test and challenge competing viewpoints and opinions. UNM remains dedicated to protecting constitutionally protected expression while ensuring the safety of our campus community." — Ben Cloutier, Executive Director of Strategic Communications.
This statement from Ben Cloutier, Executive Director of Strategic Communications, indicates the university's official stance. However, the FIRE report and student testimonies suggest there is a gap between policy and lived experience on campus.
The Role of FIRE
The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE) is a non-profit organization established in 1999. It focuses on defending and sustaining the individual rights of students and faculty members at American colleges and universities. FIRE often intervenes in cases where it believes free speech or academic freedom is threatened.
Their annual 'Free Speech Rankings' report is a key initiative. It aims to inform students, parents, and the public about the state of free speech on campuses nationwide. The rankings often generate discussion and encourage universities to review their policies and practices.
Implications for Campus Culture
The "F" grade for UNM raises important questions about the overall campus culture. A climate where students fear confrontation or self-censor their views can hinder intellectual growth and the free exchange of ideas central to higher education.
The report suggests that while universities may have policies supporting free speech, the practical implementation and the perception among students are equally important. Creating an environment where all students feel genuinely safe to express themselves is a complex challenge that requires ongoing effort from administrators, faculty, and the student body.
This situation at UNM is not isolated. Many universities across the country grapple with balancing free speech rights with other important values, such as inclusivity and safety. The FIRE report serves as a benchmark for institutions to assess their progress in this critical area.
