Indiana University’s decision to abruptly cancel the print edition of the Indiana Daily Student (IDS) — followed by the firing of student media adviser Jim Rodenbush — represents a direct threat to freedom of the press on campus.

The IDS has been a training ground for generations of journalists. Its independence isn’t just a tradition — it’s a right. When a university silences its student newspaper, it sends a chilling message: only news that reflects administrative approval is allowed.

This is about more than just paper and ink. It’s about protecting students’ constitutional rights. It’s about ensuring that future journalists are free to report the truth without fear of retaliation. And it’s about defending the credibility of Indiana University, which now finds itself at the center of national and even international criticism for its disregard of First Amendment values.

The university claims this was a financial decision — yet students say they had advertisers lined up and distribution prepared. Alumni and press freedom organizations are speaking out. Over 300 IDS alumni have demanded a voice in decisions about the paper’s future, and journalism faculty say IU’s actions have “breached the core values” they teach.

We, the undersigned, call on Indiana University leadership to:

• Immediately reinstate printed editions of the Indiana Daily Student, including planned special issues.
• Reinstate Jim Rodenbush, the fired student media adviser.
• Guarantee the editorial independence of IDS and all student-run media through a binding, public university policy.

Universities should foster inquiry — not fear it. Student journalism is not a threat to be managed; it’s a public good to be protected.

IU must act now to repair the harm done and reaffirm its commitment to free expression.

Photo: Rich Janzaruk/Herald-Times