New Jersey Assembly Bill AR33

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Urges all institutions of higher education in the State to protect freedom of expression and open debate.

Impact

The resolution highlights a growing concern regarding restrictions on free expression observed on college campuses, which has led to political polarization and hostility among students. Specific instances of censorship have created an environment where both students and faculties feel pressured to conform to the prevailing views of their peers, leading to a decline in healthy democratic discourse. By advocating for open debate, AR33 seeks to counteract this trend and promote a more tolerant and understanding educational environment that encourages varied opinions.

Summary

Assembly Resolution No. 33 (AR33) urges all institutions of higher education in New Jersey to protect freedom of expression and open debate within their campuses. The resolution emphasizes the importance of free speech as essential to democratic governance, citing that a culture of censorship within educational institutions can negatively impact the development and education of students. By fostering an environment where open dialogue can occur, the resolution aims to prepare students for active participation in a democratic society, recognizing the role of higher education in cultivating critical thinking and diverse perspectives.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding AR33 is the acknowledgment of instances where open expression has been silenced due to political pressures, such as the controversial withdrawal of former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice from a graduation ceremony at Rutgers University. This example underlines the real-world implications of self-censorship among students and faculty who fear social backlash for expressing unpopular opinions. Consequently, the resolution encourages higher education institutions to actively implement policies that protect free expression while fostering open debate, even on controversial topics.