Because: Racial Justice, Faith, and Academic Freedom: Phil Amerson Reflects on Indiana University Challenges with Herman B. Wells
To Be and Do Podcast: Featuring Phil Amerson
In this heartfelt "Because" episode of "To Be and Do," we welcome Phil Amerson as he reflects on recent changes at the university, the shifting landscape of academic freedom, and the enduring legacy of Dr. Wells. Through personal storytelling and sharp observations, Phil Amerson highlights the deep connections between faith, the academic community, and the ongoing struggle for racial justice.
Below are three key takeaways from this episode:
1. Shifting University Governance and Its ImpactsPhil Amerson shares concerns over significant changes at the university, particularly regarding governance. He notes the recent legislative decision to transfer the selection of board members from alumni to gubernatorial appointment. This change, coupled with large investments in sports, signals a move away from tradition and increases centralized control. These developments pose potential risks to long-valued academic freedoms and autonomy, echoing broader national trends.
2. The Legacy of Racial Justice and Faith The episode deeply explores Dr. Wells’ commitment to racial justice, illustrating how it was fundamentally rooted not just in academic philosophy but in his faith traditions. Phil Amerson recounts Dr. Wells’ mentorship and his pivotal role in inviting progressive faith leaders, like Merrill McFall, into key positions. The conversation is a tribute to the way personal history and relationships—especially those formed through faith communities—can inspire and reinforce a lifelong dedication to justice and inclusion.
3. Challenges to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion InitiativesPhil Amerson laments the dismantling of programs designed to support minority students, reflecting on how diversity, equity, and inclusion are increasingly framed as negative ideas in the broader societal discourse. He expresses sorrow at the loss of these foundational efforts and the troubling direction in which current attitudes seem to be headed. The plea to "keep trying to share your great legacy" serves as both a call to action and a moment of gratitude for the progress already accomplished.
Summary This episode is a moving blend of personal memory, social critique, and a call for continued vigilance. Phil Amerson’s reflections on leadership, racial justice, and the power of faith will be inspiring for listeners who care deeply about the future of academic communities and equitable opportunity.
Be sure to listen to the full episode for a powerful reminder of why advocacy and remembrance matter more than ever.
Transcript
Phil Amerson:
Free audio post production by alphonic.com hello, Dr. Wells, it's Phil Amerson again. I've come to visit with you. You won't believe what's been happening at the university since we last talked. A lot of damage done by the state legislature. It's just kind of a remarkably sad story, as can you believe it? No longer do alums get to elect board members, now the governor appoints them. And we now invest 82 or $86 million in a football coach for the next eight years. He's done really well.
Phil Amerson:
Seems like a good guy. But attached to his contract is the idea that the sports director and the president won't be held responsible if he goes to another school for his contract payout, or only half. So we've had quite a bit of interesting activity. Much of it has been, frankly, hostile to academic freedom. Something you were so committed to. One last thing, Dr. Wells. I remember visiting with you and hearing about your commitments to racial justice and the faith community.
Phil Amerson:
And it was only recently that I learned that you spent a year in elementary school with Dr. Merrill McF. McFall later became pastor at First United Methodist Church. Well, you invited him as a young man in Crown Point, you drove up as head of the administrative board at First United Methodist Church, and you had known one another, and you invited him to come and lead the Wesley foundation and then to be the senior pastor. So, Dr. Wells, I think some people think your commitment to racial justice always rooted in your philosophy, your view of the academy. And that's true. But it's also increasingly clear that it's rooted in your faith and in your faith traditions.
Phil Amerson:
And growing up knowing John Wesley McFall, Merrill's father, and so many other progressive people, DePaul and in the Indiana Conference of the Methodist Church, certainly helped shape your commitment to racial justice. You'll be sad to know that many of the programs designed to assist minority students have now been. Well, they're disappearing. And we live in a nation right now where diversity, equity and inclusion are thought of as bad things. Oh, Herman, we miss you so much. And we're going to continue to share your voice as best we can. Thank you for all you did. And yes, I wish you were here to speak, but we'll keep trying to share your great legacy.
Phil Amerson:
This is Phil Amerson for the Be and Do podcast. Because. Because of your commitments to racial justice.
