Indiana University’s Crisis: Racism, Authoritarianism, and the Battle for Academic Freedom (Petition Included)
In this poignant and timely episode of the To Be and Do podcast, host Philip Amerson delves into the escalating challenges currently facing Indiana University (IU) and ties them to broader currents of social, racial, and political change in the United States. Drawing on his personal connection to IU and his experience as an observer of both academic and civic life in Bloomington, Philip provides a deeply reflective narrative on the erosion of shared governance, inclusion, and academic freedom at one of America's esteemed public universities.
Philip opens by contextualizing the sense of “vertigo” many feel during these turbulent times—social, emotional, and political. He quickly narrows in on his alma mater, sharing grave concerns over the abrupt elimination of hundreds of courses and degree programs, including those in the humanities and social sciences. Citing a failure in shared governance, he describes how faculty, alumni, and students were left out of critical decision-making processes, setting a troubling precedent.
The episode then explores recent actions taken by the Indiana state legislature and university administration, which include the elimination of trustee elections and a mounting assault on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Philip discusses how these moves have not only weakened representation and support for underrepresented groups but have also led to a chilling rollback of scholarships, campus programs, and visible commitments to creating an inclusive campus community.
Key Takeaway Points:
- Shared Governance Under Threat: Decision-making at IU has shifted away from an inclusive model to one dominated by top-down directives, bypassing the input of those most affected—students, faculty, and community members.
- Racial and Social Retrenchment: A series of actions at IU highlights a resurgence of exclusionary practices—from paused scholarships for minority students to the removal of DEI language and support structures—reflecting deeper systemic issues of racism.
- Christian Nationalism and Political Overreach: Philip draws connections between IU’s struggles and the rise of Christian nationalism, as promoted by projects such as the Heritage Foundation’s Project Esther and Project 2025, warning of their real-time impacts on education, religious freedom, and democracy.
- Hope and the Power of Community Action: Despite overwhelming challenges, Philip ends on a note of hope, inviting listeners to sign a petition supporting inclusion and academic freedom, and encouraging ongoing dialogue and resistance to fear-driven policies.
Listeners will come away with a better understanding of not only the crisis at IU but also how local events tie into national and global currents. Philip’s call to action is clear: only through collective awareness and engaged participation can we push back against forces that threaten pluralism, education, and democracy.
For links to the petition, resources, and related events at Candler School of Theology, visit our episode page.
Petition Opposing Racist Policies at Indiana University
Candler School of Theology Event Opposing Christian Nationalism
