As students of Baylor University, we are deeply concerned about the discrepancies in freedom of speech and expression allowed on campus. Our university claims to uphold values of open discourse and free expression, yet we have witnessed a troubling double standard when it comes to the types of events and viewpoints that are permitted.

Turning Point USA, a conservative organization, has been granted the ability to plan, execute, and host events without obstruction. However, other events that diverge from Baylor's dominant narrative, such as discussions on the genocide in Gaza, protests against ICE, and criticisms of Trump, have been denied or suppressed.

This runs counter to two of Baylor's self professed initiatives: The "Baylor in Deeds" strategic plan, specifically our new motto, Pro Mundo, and our University’s commitment to "civil discourse". 

This selective allowance indicates that Baylor's concept of 'free speech' may not be as inclusive or fair as it should be. Students deserve the right to engage in open dialogue about important issues, regardless of whether these issues align with the university's donors and board of regents' beliefs. This inconsistency not only stifles student voices but undermines the foundational principle of academic freedom. This lack of consistency suggests that "civil discourse" is only prioritized when it aligns with certain interests, particularly those with money.

If Baylor’s mission is truly Christian and educational, it must include the voices of the marginalized and the seekers of justice, not just the well-funded interests of the status quo. Further, with all of the war, hateful discourse, and tension in our nation today, inviting TPUSA without inviting an equal counterpart runs contrary to Baylor's mission to improve civil discourse. Again, this move reads as if one voice matters more than another.

We propose two potential solutions:

1. All student organizations be granted the same freedoms as Turning Point USA to host events and express diverse viewpoints without fear of administrative suppression or bias.

2. Alternatively, but less ideally, apply the same restrictions to Turning Point USA as have been applied to other student-led events, ensuring an equitable approach towards freedom of expression on campus.

To be clear, we don't want to silence others; we want the same access they have.

We recognize that no institution is neutral. However, by granting exclusive 'unrestricted' space to one political arm (TPUSA), Baylor has abandoned its role as a place of rigorous inquiry and has become a site of ideological indoctrination of a specific perspective of Christianity. We demand the same 'unrestricted' space for counter-narratives.

This is not about restricting others; it is about reclaiming our agency. Education is a practice of freedom. When the university gatekeeps who can speak, it treats students as 'containers' to be filled with approved thought, rather than active participants in their own liberation or redemption in Christ.

This issue is personal to us because we are committed to fostering an environment where diverse voices and perspectives are heard and respected, including organizations such as TPUSA. We believe that every student should have the opportunity to participate in meaningful discussions, free from discrimination based on the nature of their beliefs or causes.

We urge Baylor University to reconsider its approach and ensure that its policies reflect true freedom of speech, supporting an inclusive campus environment where all voices have the opportunity to be heard.

If we claim to “fling our Green and Gold afar to light the ways of time” then we must reject the shadows that keep the most vulnerable populations in the dark.

Please support us in this crucial call for fairness and equality by signing this petition. Together, we can advocate for positive change within our university community.