Art is a medium which reaches beyond aesthetic value and into the realm of political dialogue—all art is political. This is precisely why I find myself compelled to start this petition. The current demand from certain groups to dismantle the FL3TCHER Exhibit at the Reece Museum, part of East Tennessee State University (ETSU), is more than just an assault on artistic creativity; it's an infringement upon our cherished right to Freedom of Expression.

The exhibit is an internationally recognized showcase of socially and politically engaged art, drawing submissions from artists worldwide, and is a vital part of ETSU's cultural and educational offerings, contributing to the enrichment of both the campus and local communities. (Read more here: https://fl3tch3rexhibit.com/ )

Since the FL3TCH3R Exhibit, now in its twelfth year, opened to the public in early October, it has especially garnered attention this year, particularly from the student organization Turning Point, USA (TPUSA). Initially, the group was upset about an artwork, "It's All Connected," which depicted the economic relationships between conservative leaders/talking heads—namely TPUSA's founder, Charlie Kirk—and alt-right entities such as white supremacy groups and Christian Nationalist organizations. Local press coverage, however, also highlighted complaints about other artworks in the exhibit (read more here: https://www.wjhl.com/news/national/art-exhibit-at-tennessee-university-museum-draws-controversy/ ). Despite what TPUSA and the local media has centered on, the reality is that of the 99 artworks in this year's FL3TCH3R, only 13% involve criticism of conservative leaders.

The FL3TCHER Exhibit is not simply a collection of art pieces; it's a compilation of voices, a collective outcry using visual representation as a platform for discussion. Living in an era that increasingly values freedom and autonomy, it is essential to protect any form of expression that reflects our societal, political, and individual narratives. Furthermore, the exhibit carries on the memory of Fletcher Dyer, age 22, who was lost too soon in a motorcycle accident in Johnson City, TN on November 5, 2009. Fletcher was a senior in the Department of Art and Design at ETSU pursuing a concentration in Graphic Design under a Bachelor of Fine Arts program. The exhibit's proceeds after expenses fund the Fletcher H. Dyer Memorial Scholarship for an art and design student. While this current situation is challenging, it resonates with the values Fletcher upheld—championing freedom of speech and fostering conversations that illuminate the realities of our society. Fletcher believed in the transformative power of open dialogue, especially on issues that provoke thought and change.

This is about more than just a single exhibit. The fate of the FL3TCHER Exhibit hints at how institutions might respond to perceived politically-charged art in the future. We need ETSU to set a positive precedent by protecting the exhibit and ensuring a rich diversity of voices are heard and seen through the conduit of art.

By signing this petition, you're not just supporting the FL3TCHER Exhibit, but also standing for the principles of Freedom of Expression and academic freedom, crucial for progress in our society. Consider helping by lending your signature. Stand with us. Let the FL3TCHER Exhibit speak!