1. United States
2. Ill.
3. Letter

Free speech and the right to protest are fundamental rights in a democracy. Threatening to withhold funding from universities and imprison protestors is an unacceptable attack on these core values. We must firmly reject any attempts to stifle dissent or transform America into an authoritarian state. Our nation's strength lies in its diversity of views and the ability to voice disagreement peacefully. Curtailing free expression on campus would undermine the free exchange of ideas that is vital for an educated, engaged citizenry. Rather than punishing protests, we should address the underlying issues driving people to exercise their constitutional rights. I urge you to speak out against these dangerous anti-democratic proposals and uphold the freedoms that make America a beacon of liberty.