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Catholic University Reverses Reddit Ban Amid Censorship Concerns

1/15/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Catholic University of America blocked Reddit due to a system error tied to a 2019 policy restricting porn sites, and officials reversed the ban after two days.
Student leaders said the move risks censorship affecting academic freedom and free speech, and they filed a resolution for web filtering standards and prior notification for future bans.
Despite the restoration, students plan to pursue protections for expression and academic freedom.

History

Historical Context

The Communications Decency Act (CDA) of 1996, signed by President Bill Clinton, aimed to regulate online indecency, particularly targeting pornography. However, the Supreme Court struck down much of the CDA in 1997, citing First Amendment violations. This historical tension between censorship and free speech continues today, as seen in recent debates at the Catholic University of America over web filtering standards and academic freedom.

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Story summary

The Catholic University of America blocked Reddit due to a system error tied to a 2019 policy restricting porn sites, and officials reversed the ban after two days.
Student leaders said the move risks censorship affecting academic freedom and free speech, and they filed a resolution for web filtering standards and prior notification for future bans.
Despite the restoration, students plan to pursue protections for expression and academic freedom.

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