University prof threatens to kick students from class who argue against BLM, abortion, LGBT
University prof threatens to kick students from class who argue against BLM, abortion, LGBT
Follow @KnightsTempOrgIowa State University English professor Chloe Clark told students that they may make ‘no arguments against gay marriage, abortion, Black Lives Matter.’
According to The College Fix, English professor Chloe Clark’s English 250 course syllabus stated that students “cannot choose any topic that takes at its base that one side doesn’t deserve the same basic human rights as you do (i.e. no arguments against gay marriage, abortion, Black Lives Matter, etc.). I take this seriously.”
The syllabus, obtained by Young America’s Foundation (YAF), stated, “(A)ny instances of othering that you participate in intentionally (racism, sexism, ableism, homophobia, sorophobia, transphobia, classism, mocking of mental health issues, body shaming, etc.) in class are grounds for dismissal from the classroom.”
On Monday, the university stated that the professor’s syllabus had been reviewed and found to be “inconsistent” with the university’s standards.
“The syllabus statement as written was inconsistent with the university’s standards and its commitment to the First Amendment rights of students,” the statement read. “After reviewing this issue with the faculty member, the syllabus has been corrected to ensure it is consistent with university policy.”
“Moreover, the faculty member is being provided additional information regarding the First Amendment policies of the university,” it continued.
“Iowa State is firmly committed to protecting the First Amendment rights of its students, faculty, and staff. With respect to student expression in the classroom, including the completion of assignments,” the statement concluded, “the university does not take disciplinary action against students based on the content or viewpoints expressed in their speech.”
YAF spokesman Spencer Brown told The College Fix, “It is hopeful news to see a university take the side of the First Amendment and the free expression rights of its students — still, it is shameful that a faculty member ran so far afoul of basic educational practice and the Constitution that such a retraining of this kind is necessary.”
“Based on what we at YAF see and hear from our student activists,” he continued, “many administrators and professors could use a refresher on the First Amendment as the fall semester begins.”