The 39th Annual Maryland Communication Association (MCA) conference theme “Academic Freedom: Let’s Talk about Higher Ed” examines academic freedom in institutions of higher education. Contemporary attacks on the value of higher education and academic freedom are increasing in the US. Multiple states are considering proposals to eliminate tenure from universities, potentially infringing on faculty teaching and research subjects. At the same time that college students have become the most diverse in US history, some institutions and legislatures fight against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts. This conference invites a civil dialogue about freedom in modern higher education. We invite submissions that address the topic of freedom as it relates to education, speech, media, civil and human rights, identity politics and belonging, choice, beliefs, dissent, safety, discrimination, and opportunity. We can continue the conversation at the 109th National Communication Association Annual Conference at the National Harbor in Maryland, November 16-19, 2023, with the theme, “Freedom.”