The NYCLU’s Letter to President Bollinger
Arthur Eisenberg, Donna Lieberman, Udi Ofer,
NYCLU, December 20, 2004
(full text)

In this letter, the New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU) addresses the controversy at Columbia surrounding the release of the David Project-sponsored film, “Columbia Unbecoming.” The letter emphasizes the importance of academic freedom on university campuses, but argues that the accusations against MEALAC professors seem not to be motivated by a desire to defend students’ academic freedom. The letter asserts that the accusations in the film look to be motivated not by the conduct of the identified professors, but by the content of their lectures. The letter also discusses efforts of specific members of the press, donors and politicians to influence the actions of Columbia in regard to the allegations (e.g. attempts to pressure Columbia administrators to fire Professor Massad). The letter characterizes these efforts as inappropriate and identifies them as a danger to the health of academic freedom on campus. The letter then presents a series of policy recommendations for the Columbia administration. (back to academic freedom)