FGCU student and professor comment on regulation that could limit speech on college campuses

Proposed Senate Bill 266, which aims to restrict diversity programs and social activism at Florida public universities, is not sitting well with some students and professors at FGCU.

“Tremendous negative impact on the student’s ability to learn on issues of public concern, which includes social issues, which include governmental legislation, which include both at the state and federal level,” said FGCU professor F. King Alexander.

A draft version circulating for feedback says universities may not fund activities that advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion or promote political activism.

“If our students aren’t exposed to these important debates and are not exposed to these important societal and governmental issues, then our students are not going to get a high-quality higher education experience. And they’re going to be lesser citizens,” Alexander said.

FGCU professor F. King Alexander believes the proposed bill violates the First Amendment, and students agree.

“As being like a free speech area, that’s important that everyone’s able to say what they want to say and stuff, there shouldn’t be a limit as to what they can say it all,” said FGCU student Garret Denam.

“I’d say we have a constitution for a reason. It says we’re allowed to say what we want when we want as long as we follow certain guidelines: don’t cause violence, don’t cause hate speech, speak your mind,” said FGCU student Marlon Acevedo.

The regulation makes exceptions for student-led organizations, certain activities by schools, and activities where following the state law would jeopardize federal funding.

“This is an infringement of constitutional rights of public teachers, public faculty members, and anybody speaking on public concern that may venture into societal social issues and or government policies that they might disagree with,” Alexander said.

The board of governors oversees the state university system and must approve this regulation for it to happen. They will discuss final approval in January.