Chilling speech

Students and faculty members have expressed much dismay about their voices not being heard. We teach our students that they should speak out against injustice because their voices matter, but the BOT decision seems to have ripped that message apart. Speaking truth to power is always vital, and this is even more essential in an academic setting in which shared governance, academic freedom, and academic integrity are integral to the promise of higher education. But I understand the fear of retribution that many faculty have expressed, and I understand the frustration of students who are concerned that their voices weren't heard in a place where voices (and reason) should absolutely matter. But when politics trumps reason, our response needs to be political as well. SO PLEASE VOTE! If you are not registered to vote, you need to do so by October 6. Don't wait!