1. United States
2. Ind.
3. Letter

Dear Members of Congress, I write to urge you to protect the independence of America’s colleges and universities from political pressures that threaten higher education. The strength of our nation’s academic institutions has always rested on their ability to teach students how to think, not what to think—a distinction that is fundamental to the American tradition of critical inquiry and innovation. Academic freedom and institutional autonomy are essential for fostering environments where students and faculty can engage in open inquiry, debate, and the pursuit of truth. Suppressing opposing viewpoints and mandating orthodoxy risks this pursuit of knowledge and undermines the very purpose of education. When a government attempts to dictate what can or cannot be taught, education risks devolving into indoctrination. This erodes students’ capacity for independent judgment and critical thinking, skills vital for a healthy democracy and a dynamic workforce. The United States has long been a beacon for the best and brightest minds from around the world, drawn by the promise of academic freedom and the opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research and innovation. Recent political interference—including threats to funding and demands to align curricula with partisan agendas—jeopardizes not only life-saving research but also America’s reputation as a leader in independent learning and innovation. If our universities become tools of political conformity, we risk losing our status as a global destination for talent and discovery, undermining centuries of progress that have benefited both our nation and the world. I urge Congress to reaffirm its commitment to academic freedom and institutional independence. Our colleges and universities must remain spaces where ideas can be freely explored, challenged, and debated—where students are empowered to think for themselves and contribute meaningfully to society. America’s greatness has always depended on our ability to attract and nurture talent, embrace diverse perspectives, and champion the free exchange of ideas. Let us not forsake these principles at this critical moment. Thank you for listening and thank you for acting with the best interest of the American people at heart.