Free Speech

A debate over books in Texas' public school libraries picked up new attention last week, when Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick threatened legislative action unless Texas school districts pull books from the shelves that he and certain activists believe are "harmful" to students and families and violate Texas' Senate Bill 13. In a meeting of Lubbock ISD's board of trustees, the district stood by the parent-led library council and book review system established under state law.

While workers, who were employees in government or public institutions, feel vindicated by how their lawsuits concluded, they are still grappling with the aftermath.

The Honor Council recommended a written reprimand for “celebratory” comments. The lawsuit argued that would violate her free speech rights.

The Texas Tech University System announced that it will be closing all academic programs 'centered on' Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity. The process will include a program review, admissions freeze, and closure. Students currently enrolled in these programs will be able to finish their degrees.

Texas Tech students and faculty gathered at Memorial Circle Thursday afternoon to protest against new restrictions on course materials.

This week, the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce announced that the Hub City BBQ Cookoff, scheduled as a two day event in September, will not be open to the public this year. The UT System board of regents have approved a measure for faculty to avoid quote “controversial topics.” KUT’s Greta Diaz Gonzalez Vazquez tells us faculty and advocates are worried this might lead to censorship.

This is the latest move by the state to have more control over what is taught at public universities.

An event organized by a student group intended to discuss abortion was cancelled by the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center late last month, after backlash from conservative activists and Turning Point USA at Texas Tech. Now, another free speech group is calling on the TTUHSC to allow them to reschedule the event.

The Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center cancelled an event organized by a student group, set to take place last week featuring a conversation about third-trimester abortion. Our reporter Samantha Larned reports the decision has been met with support and criticism from free speech advocacy groups.

The system’s chancellor meant to instill clarity and accountability, but three weeks into the spring semester, some instructors say the standards have led to “censorship.”