AUSTIN, Texas — Students and faculty at the University of Texas and the University of North Texas staged mock funerals in May to protest what they describe as declining academic freedom and increasing political influence over higher education in Texas.
At the University of Texas at Austin, participants dressed in funeral attire and marched behind a horse-drawn hearse from campus to the UT System Board of Regents offices. Organizers said the event symbolized the loss of academic independence, open discussion, and faculty input in university decision-making.
The demonstrations come after several years of legislative changes affecting public universities in Texas. Senate Bill 17, passed in 2023, prohibited Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs at public colleges and universities. The law led to the closure or restructuring of numerous programs and administrative offices across the state. Additional legislation passed in 2025 expanded oversight of university curricula and governance, giving boards of regents greater authority over academic programs and reviews.
Critics argue the changes have created a climate of fear among faculty and students, particularly regarding courses involving race, gender, and LGBTQ topics. Some professors have reported self-censoring course content or choosing retirement rather than adapting to new restrictions. Others contend the policies are necessary to ensure universities remain politically neutral and focused on educational outcomes.
Faculty members interviewed in the report said concerns have grown over curriculum reviews, classroom recordings, and increased scrutiny from elected officials. Supporters of the reforms argue that public universities should remain accountable to taxpayers and state policymakers.
Sources:
- Truthout – MBFC Rating
- Texas Tribune – MBFC Rating
- Texas Legislature Online (SB 17)
- Texas Legislature Online (SB 37)
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