If you or your academic work is subject to censorship

Gather all correspondence and notes that relate to your experience. Use this documentation to refresh your memory and to substantiate your complaint if you decide to speak out.

You may want to discuss the situation with a colleague or peer who can offer counsel and provide a second assessment of the situation. 

If you sense that your situation is part of a larger problem, connect with others who have shared your experience and are willing to back you up.

Read your university’s faculty handbook. Be well versed in the protections and limitations of academic freedom.

See AAUP’s “Statement of Principles on Academic Freedom and Tenure”

Discuss your concerns with your department head or an appropriate authority on campus, such as faculty affairs or a faculty council.

It may be necessary to remind administrators, fellow faculty, or students of the principle of academic freedom. Understand this principle—and its limitations—especially as it relates to free speech. Where possible, refer to institutional policies, or to documents published by AAUP.

Consider bringing public attention to your case. Sharing your story could help you develop a support network to combat the policies and attitudes that have chilled your academic pursuits.

Numerous organizations offer support for faculty who are subject to censorship. Consider contacting FIRE for support.