We envision a republic where freedom, opportunity, creativity, and innovation flourish in our schools and workplaces.

Our mission is to defend and advance freedom and opportunity for every American family, student, entrepreneur, and worker and to protect our civil and constitutional rights at school and work.

PRESS RELEASE: Defense of Freedom Institute Urges Supreme Court to Protect Public Employees’ Free Speech Rights

WASHINGTON—The Defense of Freedom Institute for Policy Studies (DFI), together with the Manhattan Institute…

Mar 10 | Podcast

PODCAST: | “Freedom to Learn:” What Caused the “Lost Decade” in K-12 Education?

A frank discussion with Steven Wilson on social justice ideology, colleges of education, and unions. I’m fortunate that part of my job…

Mar 10 | Podcast

PODCAST: | “Freedom to Learn:” Melissa Batie Smoose and Vernadette Broyles on Courage, Consequences, & the Future of Title IX

“It is not a kindness to endorse and affirm a false reality.” In January, young female athletes, policymakers…

Civil and Constitutional Rights

America is facing a historical moment, when many are pushing for policies that violate core constitutional and civil rights essential to a free society. DFI exists to defend the Constitution and the rule of law and protect civil liberties at school and work.

Postsecondary Education

DFI works to nurture a vision for long-term higher education reform that reduces the federal role in financing postsecondary education, protects taxpayers, and meets the demand for alternatives to four-year degrees.

Education Freedom and Parental Rights

Our nation’s one-size-fits all K-12 education system is failing far too many students and must be radically transformed to ensure all Americans have the freedom to choose the education that is best for them.

Teacher Unions

Union leaders and their allies have used their political power to push aside parents, families, and classroom teachers to dominate public education in ways that harm students and limit their opportunities. DFI works to hold teacher unions accountable and expose the harm that they continue to cause students, families, and teachers.

America is under siege by radical activists and teacher union bosses. DFI exists to fight back. Will you join us in this fight?

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