As a proud alumnus of Fort Lewis College and former team member of the championship 1984 football program, I have always held great pride in the college’s commitment to open dialogue, diversity of thought, and respect for individual freedoms. These are core principles not only of higher education but of the democratic ideals that guide our nation.
It is therefore with deep disappointment that I learned of the college student Senate’’s decision to deny recognition to a proposed student chapter of Turning Point USA. Regardless of one’s personal views toward the organization, the suppression of a student group on the basis of its political perspective runs contrary to the very mission of a liberal arts institution. Colleges should serve as places where students are encouraged to engage in civil discourse, exchange ideas freely, and learn to challenge and refine their own beliefs through exposure to differing viewpoints.
True intellectual diversity cannot exist if only certain ideologies are permitted to be represented. Denying recognition to TPUSA sends an unfortunate message to current and prospective students that Fort Lewis College values inclusion only when it aligns with certain political leanings.
I urge the student government to reconsider this decision in the spirit of academic freedom and the First Amendment rights of all students. Allowing all viewpoints to be heard, even controversial ones, is essential to maintaining the integrity and credibility of higher education.
Rick Frasier
Bennett, CO
