What’s Happening—and Why We’re Speaking Out
In recent months, the federal government has escalated efforts to interfere in higher education—threatening to eliminate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs, reshape academic departments, and impose ideological filters on students and faculty. These moves undermine civil rights protections, chill free inquiry, and break the long-standing boundary between government power and academic independence.
One of the most alarming examples: the demand that Columbia University place its Middle Eastern Studies department under academic receivership—an unprecedented attempt by the White House to directly control the structure and content of a university department.
In this climate, Harvard made a bold choice. Rather than caving to political pressure, it affirmed its independence and commitment to academic freedom. We believe more institutions must do the same.
That’s why we’re launching this open letter. We’re early-career scientists calling on our peers, mentors, and institutions to defend the future of science, scholarship, and public health. We believe the freedom to teach, learn, and ask hard questions is essential—not just to academia, but to democracy itself.
Add your name. Join us!
Science for Good 