In the realm of academia, the freedom to express controversial ideas is paramount. However, the recent history of Northwestern University reveals a troubling trend of censorship that has only intensified since the resignation of a prominent professor. This article delves into the events surrounding Alice Dreger’s departure and the subsequent developments that have raised concerns about academic freedom at the institution.
The Resignation That Sparked Outrage
On August 24, 2015, Alice Dreger, a tenured professor at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, made headlines by resigning in protest against the censorship of the journal Atrium. Dreger had served as a guest editor for a special issue titled “Bad Girls,” which featured a provocative essay by disability rights advocate William Peace. The piece, which discussed a personal experience from the 1970s, was deemed too controversial by university officials, leading to the removal of the journal’s online issues for over a year. This incident highlighted the growing tensions between academic expression and administrative control.
Preceding Protests and Administrative Control
Dreger was not alone in her dissent; Kristi Kirschner, a clinical professor, had previously resigned in December 2014 over similar issues of censorship related to Atrium. The university’s response to the controversy was to impose a new editorial board, which Dreger criticized as a “censorship committee.” The faculty editors of Atrium resisted this administrative takeover, resulting in the journal’s permanent cessation of publication. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by academics who dare to challenge institutional norms.
Reflecting on Censorship and Its Consequences
In a recent reflection, Dreger expressed her regret over the journal’s demise, acknowledging its significance in the academic landscape. However, the true responsibility for the journal’s closure lies with the university’s administration, which prioritized control over open discourse. The narrative surrounding Dreger’s resignation and the censorship of Atrium has often been overshadowed by more publicized cases, such as the Title IX investigation of Laura Kipnis, which, while problematic, did not result in the same level of institutional suppression.
Comparative Cases of Censorship
The contrasting treatment of Kipnis and Dreger underscores a troubling reality: while some cases of censorship receive widespread attention, others, particularly those that challenge conservative viewpoints, remain largely unreported. For instance, in 2016, political science professor Jackie Stevens faced suspension after voicing concerns about administrative behavior. This incident further illustrates the lengths to which the university will go to silence dissenting voices.
Current Climate of Censorship
Fast forward to today, and the situation at Northwestern has only worsened. The administration’s recent adoption of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance definition of antisemitism has drawn criticism for potentially stifling free speech on campus. Additionally, the removal of the Gender and Sexuality Resource Center’s website in response to political pressures exemplifies the ongoing repression of marginalized voices within the university community.
Retaliation Against Faculty and Students
One of the most alarming developments has been the treatment of journalism professor Steven Thrasher, who faced retaliation after defending student protests. His subsequent suspension and the denial of tenure raise serious questions about the integrity of the university’s commitment to academic freedom. The administration’s actions against Thrasher reflect a broader pattern of silencing those who challenge the status quo.
Resistance and the Fight for Academic Freedom
Despite the oppressive environment, faculty and students at Northwestern are actively resisting censorship. A recent vote by the faculty assembly in support of a resolution advocating for academic freedom demonstrates a collective commitment to protecting free speech. However, the administration’s refusal to acknowledge these concerns indicates a troubling trend that threatens the very foundation of academic inquiry.
A Call to Action
As Dreger poignantly stated a decade ago, an institution where faculty fear repercussions for expressing their views cannot truly be considered a university. The ongoing censorship at Northwestern serves as a cautionary tale for other academic institutions grappling with similar issues. It is imperative for the academic community to unite in defense of free expression and to challenge the forces that seek to suppress dissenting voices.