The Hechinger Report
Colleges are strengthening protest policies, balancing freedom of speech and hostile environments. Policies require prior approval for demonstrations, limit protest locations, and ban encampments. Critics argue these undermine academic freedom and discourage protest. Last spring’s protests led to arrests, suspensions, and harassment. College leaders face scrutiny for protest handling. Some suggest stricter adherence to conduct codes and severe penalties for violations. Meanwhile, college applicant numbers rose 7% last year, with increases from lower-income and underrepresented racial groups. However, the number of federally recognized colleges fell 2%.