Democrats Disappointed after Assembly Committee on Colleges and Universities Hearing |
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Commentary |
Written by Jodi Emerson, State Representative District 91 |
Friday, 12 May 2023 15:03 |
“Free speech is an invaluable right and we all recognize the importance of everyone coming to the table to share their ideas, experiences, and perspectives. It is the height of irony for all four of the Assembly Colleges and Universities campus free speech hearings to only include invited speakers. Wisconsin has a remarkable shared governance model, and our faculty, staff, and students should always be involved and at the table to share their thoughts and experiences. Chairman Murphy made minimal effort to work with the Democratic members of the committee and failed to include the opportunity for public testimony. He speaks so highly of viewpoint diversity, but clearly does not have enough faith in it to have included it in his own hearings on the topic. “We are disturbed at the common thread throughout the hearing today regarding higher education funding and diversity, equity, & inclusion (DEI). At a time when 71% of companies surveyed have implemented DEI initiatives, it is both misguided and backwards to consider ending DEI at UW System campuses.
“We stand ready and willing to work with our colleagues across the aisle on the pressing issues facing our UW System and campuses across Wisconsin: funding, access, and affordability. Instead of an invited list of speakers, we encourage Chairman Murphy to hold true public hearings and invite all students, faculty, and staff to share their viewpoints. If not, we will continue to be disappointed in these hearings, which are the perfect example of what not to do when hosting a discussion — or lack thereof— on free speech.” |
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