The Oberlin free speech project

Hulan Edward is a senior at Oberlin College and is a FIRE Campus Scholar.

The ability to speak freely and express ourselves is one of the cornerstones of both democracy and rigorous academia. It allows us to challenge authority, hold our leaders accountable, and demand change where we see fit. It also allows us to interact with members of our society, express ourselves, and analyze viewpoints from all sides to thoroughly test our own beliefs on various issues. Without free speech, the world we live in would be a far less vibrant and dynamic place. 

I grew up in Montana, surrounded by beliefs that I often couldn’t agree with. It was during that time that I learned just how important free speech is — not only to myself, but to the history of America. Despite my beliefs, however, I was never spurred to action until I read “The Coddling of the American Mind” by FIRE President and CEO Greg Lukianoff, who highlighted the dangers of limiting free speech on college campuses. Lukianoff’s book also raised my awareness of issues around free speech at Oberlin. When I found out about the Campus Scholar program, I also found a chance to stand up for an ideal I hold near and dear to my heart on my own college’s campus. 

Oberlin’s environment for free speech is one with a storied past. According to FIRE’s College Free Speech Rankings, Oberlin is the 135th ranked institution for free speech. Oberlin has advocated for free speech in some instances, but it also has policies that are vague and could be used to suppress speech. For example, Oberlin’s Student Bill of Rights includes freedom of expression but excludes anonymous expression as a form of free speech, saying that it is “inimical to the free and open exchange of ideas.” That very policy has earned Oberlin a “yellow light” rating from FIRE, as it may be used to suppress the expression of ideas on campus.

Oberlin College

Oberlin, OH

School Ranking

115 of 251

Speech Code

Yellow

Free Speech Climate

Overall score: 48

More Info

My initial plan for the Campus Scholars project was to create a digital ePortfolio (similar to a website), using Oberlin’s Digication platform for distribution to students through one of the online student bulletins or campus emails. I intended this ePortfolio to focus on educating students on the importance of free speech on college campuses and in the world more broadly. Additionally, I proposed bringing in a guest lecture in support of the ePortfolio launch, to further the importance of free speech and student rights at Oberlin. 

As with all projects, I faced many difficulties along the way. At one point, the project extended to multiple speakers. However, due to difficulties — including bureaucratic and cultural issues — my event went back to the original plan of one guest lecturer. Despite that, Oberlin’s administration and faculty supported my ePortfolio and encouraged me to bring in a speaker, and I am incredibly thankful for that.

I consider both aspects of my project a success. The ePortfolio itself went smoothly and was distributed to the campus body through the school digest and student senate weekly newsletter. In the first 24 hours of being live, it had 120 views, and multiple students messaged me interested in submitting thoughts on free speech. FIRE Vice President of Student Outreach Molly Nocheck visited Oberlin to celebrate the ePortfolio launch and speak to students. Over 20 students showed up, actively participating and engaging with her presentation and the discussion. 

I was encouraged by the positive discourse that Molly was able to foster amongst the participants. Every student there seemed present and willing to express their thoughts on a variety of free speech related topics — something I never thought I would see openly at Oberlin. 

As I reflect on my time as a Campus Scholar, I realize how much I’ve learned these past few months as I developed my project. Not only did my knowledge and passion for free speech grow, but the tools needed to support my beliefs did as well. Perseverance, flexibility, and courage are just three of the many skills I am thankful this program helped me develop. The national debate will continue, but I hope that there will be more opportunities for people to come together and discuss these issues at Oberlin, inspiring students to think more deeply about the importance of free speech.