More interesting news, this in the Toledo Free Press.
U.T. prof and attorney Douglas Oliver says Jacob's action stifles open debate , that
it is hypocritical for administrators to boast of diversity while punishing those who speak out with diverse opinions.
UT: Diversity or hypocrisy?
By Douglas Oliver
Special to Toledo Free Press
There has been much discussion regarding Crystal Dixon's and UT President Lloyd Jacobs' commentaries and the subsequent firing of Dixon. What is missing from this discussion is an analysis of what both Dixon and Jacobs said, in light of the First Amendment as well as UT's mission statement and strategic plan.
The First Amendment prohibits state officials from inhibiting “the free exercise” of religion or abridging an individual's “freedom of speech”. The First Amendment does not protect all speech. For example, private employers are allowed to regulate employee's private speech. However, officials at state institutions are rarely allowed to regulate private speech.
When discussing the First Amendment, the Supreme Court often refers to the “marketplace of ideas.” In this marketplace of ideas, the best way to discover the truth is through a vibrant competition of ideas. Universities traditionally have been the bastions of this competition of ideas.
Today, most universities strive to achieve a high level of diversity to enhance the exchange of different viewpoints. UT's strategic plan seeks a “greater diversity among students, faculty and staff.” Further, UT's mission statement recognizes that one of UT's core values is to “consider the thoughts and ideas of others inside and outside” of UT.
Consider the events that led up to the firing of Dixon in light of this background on the First Amendment and UT's goal of increasing diversity. First, Michael S. Miller, editor in chief of Toledo Free Press, wrote an editorial advocating enactment of gay rights laws. In addition, Miller advocated domestic partner benefits for gay partners, especially at UT's Medical College.
Miller's editorial was answered by UT administrator Crystal Dixon, speaking as a private citizen. The following summarizes her main points:
• She opined that homosexual behavior is a choice, not a genetic trait such as a person's race.
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Admin edit: removed part post so it complies with fair use.
Read the rest at:
http://www.toledofreepress.com/?id=7793
