I don't think anyone will ever suspect me of being censored, or self-censored... or that anyone in my classes feels inhibited about expressing themselves. Right? But what about other courses? The fact that our legislature is raising these issues is a bit concerning, as regards academic freedom. These are challenging times for freedom of expression in America, with books being banned and tolerance being scorned. Thoughts, anyone? (Thanks for the link, Gary.)
Are MTSU professors censored by the state?
Last week, students received a biennial campus climate survey asking if they can express themselves adequately at MTSU.
The survey resulted from Public Chapter No. 268, which prohibits public higher education institutions from taking specific actions regarding divisive concepts and students’ and employees’ beliefs, ideologies or viewpoints. Governor Bill Lee signed it into law in 2023.
As part of the law’s requirement, public higher education institutions must survey students, staff and faculty to determine if individuals can freely express their beliefs, ideologies or viewpoints.
“When [the law] was passed, many professors became concerned that it would limit their free speech, but a careful reading makes it clear that no professor who teaches his or her course in a professional way is in danger of losing a position with the university,” said Ken Paulson, director of MTSU’s Free Speech Center and a renowned first amendment lawyer.
However, organizations like the American Civil Liberties Union of Tennessee said, “the provisions of these laws are intentionally vague and mandate reporting of ill-defined ‘violations,’ causing fear of future retribution from the Tennessee legislature.”
The law explicitly targets 16 divisive concepts... (Sidelines, continues)
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