Freedom of faculty speech

As IUB continues its quest for a new chancellor, more and more faculty seem to take issue with IU President Adam Herbert's leadership of the University. Unfortunately, we at the IDS cannot understand the full scope of the problem, as the process and its criticism has remained largely secretive. \nChemistry professor Ted Widlanski hinted to reporters in Friday's IDS that he was afraid of retribution for his comments, and continued by saying "it's about people being allowed to say what they need to say." We wholeheartedly agree.\nIdeally, we would like students to be a part of the selection process. Unfortunately, this is not practical. There are about 38,000 students at IUB, and the student body is constantly changing. If all students were able to give their input, we would never have a chancellor.\nThus, we must rely on the faculty to be the voice for the students as well as themselves. We share many of the same concerns, and most faculty members work closely with students on a regular basis. It is our belief that they have our best interests in mind, as well as their own. In short, they understand what we want and need, and should have the leverage to express it. \nIf recent history repeats itself, many of our professors will likely outlast the tenure of the next chancellor. Not only are they well-acquainted with the history and culture of IU, but also their livelihoods will be affected by Herbert's choice. \nIn class, we value the free exchange of ideas as a way to broaden our perspective and form a complete understanding of the topic at hand. Universities are supposedly havens of free speech, and any intimidation or attempts to suppress it cannot be tolerated. \nWe will not accept any attempts to temper these rights. President Herbert said he is willing to hear all concerns via scheduled appointments, and it is our hope that he makes a conscious effort to begin as soon as possible (but these appointments should not be seen as being in lieu of free and open speech).\nAll professors regardless of tenure status should be allowed to speak out. Although we have not been able to fully understand the entire picture, we applaud professor Widlanski for his willingness to speak out, and hope other faculty members will follow suit. If Herbert believes that he is doing his job well, then he will have no problem hearing and addressing faculty members' complaints in an open forum.\nIf this is not the case, then we have problems much bigger than the lack of a permanent chancellor.