Urges all institutions of higher education in the State to protect freedom of expression and open debate.
Impact
The resolution highlights a growing concern regarding restrictions on free expression observed on college campuses, which has led to political polarization and hostility among students. Specific instances of censorship have created an environment where both students and faculties feel pressured to conform to the prevailing views of their peers, leading to a decline in healthy democratic discourse. By advocating for open debate, AR33 seeks to counteract this trend and promote a more tolerant and understanding educational environment that encourages varied opinions.
Summary
Assembly Resolution No. 33 (AR33) urges all institutions of higher education in New Jersey to protect freedom of expression and open debate within their campuses. The resolution emphasizes the importance of free speech as essential to democratic governance, citing that a culture of censorship within educational institutions can negatively impact the development and education of students. By fostering an environment where open dialogue can occur, the resolution aims to prepare students for active participation in a democratic society, recognizing the role of higher education in cultivating critical thinking and diverse perspectives.
Contention
One notable point of contention surrounding AR33 is the acknowledgment of instances where open expression has been silenced due to political pressures, such as the controversial withdrawal of former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice from a graduation ceremony at Rutgers University. This example underlines the real-world implications of self-censorship among students and faculty who fear social backlash for expressing unpopular opinions. Consequently, the resolution encourages higher education institutions to actively implement policies that protect free expression while fostering open debate, even on controversial topics.
Higher education; protected expressive activities on campus; prohibiting public institutions of higher education from charging a security fee for certain expression; effective date; emergency.
Requires undergraduate students to file degree plan and requires institutions of higher education and certain propriety institutions to develop pathway systems to graduation.
Requires undergraduate students to file degree plan and requires institutions of higher education and certain proprietary institutions to develop pathway systems to graduation.
Establishes process for merger or consolidation of public institution of higher education with other institutions of higher education or certain proprietary institutions; requires executive and legislative approval of merger or consolidation.
Establishes process for merger or consolidation of public institution of higher education with other institutions of higher education or certain proprietary institutions; requires executive and legislative approval of merger or consolidation.
Relating to the issuance of a diploma to a student graduating from a public institution of higher education that has undergone a merger, acquisition, or name change.