1. United States
2. Ohio
3. Letter

This bill poses a grave threat to academic freedom and open discourse on college campuses across Ohio. Banning diversity, equity and inclusion programs amounts to institutional discrimination and ignores the critical importance of fostering an inclusive educational environment. Restricting classroom discussions on controversial topics impedes the free exchange of ideas essential for higher learning. Furthermore, stripping faculty of collective bargaining rights undermines their ability to advocate for themselves and their students. Rather than stifling speech and suppressing important dialogues, we should encourage diverse perspectives and robust debates within the bounds of civility and respect. Higher education exists to challenge assumptions, expand minds and equip students with the critical thinking skills needed to navigate complex societal issues. Preventing discussions of subjects deemed "controversial" does a disservice to students by sheltering them from reality. I urge you to reject this bill and uphold the principles of academic freedom, free speech and inclusive excellence that are vital to quality higher education. Our colleges and universities should be beacons of open inquiry, not centers of enforced ideological conformity. Please defend these core democratic values by opposing any efforts to undermine them on our campuses.