On Tuesday, Gov. Jeff Landry signed an executive order directing the Board of Regents to strengthen the protection of free speech on public university campuses.
The order was signed at a press conference held at Memorial Tower in conjunction with LSU’s chapter of Turning Point USA.
“For years, I have met students from across our state who have expressed concern about the direction of free speech on our college campuses. Students should never have to fear retribution from their teachers or classmates because they do not agree on speech or politics. Today’s executive order is a step in the right direction to cultivate a culture on our campuses where open dialogue between all viewpoints is prevalent and protected,” Landry said.
The order encourages the Board of Regents to develop and adopt policies further protecting the rights of free speech. The Board of Regents will also have to submit an annual report outlining any incidents that occurred on campus that hindered free expression.
The LSU chapter of Turning Point USA expressed their support for the executive order.
“For far too long, college faculty and our peers have cultivated an atmosphere and an environment that promotes one ideology and one set of values as the only acceptable values,” Ethan Vogin, vice president of the LSU Turning Point USA chapter, said at the news conference.
The executive order also highlights concerns regarding campus reporting systems, which allow students to report conduct they interpret as discriminatory based on factors such as age, race, gender identity, or sexual orientation. The order notes that while these reports aim to address marginalization, they may unintentionally discourage open dialogue and expressive conduct on public postsecondary campuses. It suggests that such systems, although designed to promote inclusivity, could have the effect of limiting free speech by creating an environment where individuals are hesitant to share differing viewpoints.
“One voice seems to be quieted, while another seems to yell,” Landry said.
Landry also referenced the “cancellation” of many republican figures such as Charlie Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA, who frequently garners the spotlight for his far-right activism.
During the press conference, a reporter asked Landry if his concerns about a dominant ideology on college campuses conflicted with a law he supported that mandates the display of the Ten Commandments in every K-12 and college classroom. In response, Landry stated, “The Ten Commandments are the foundation upon which Western civilization is built. To deny that is to deny the existence of the freedoms you enjoy today.”
In an Instagram post made by Landry’s office following the event, he expressed direct concern for conservative voices being silenced on campus.
LSU made a statement after the order was signed.
“At LSU, we welcome and respect all voices across the entire political spectrum. As a public university, we are dedicated to open dialogue on politics and important issues. We believe that thoughtful conversations help our community grow and empower individuals to be informed and engaged citizens,” said Zach Labbé, university spokesperson.
As universities across the state prepare for the implementation of the order, the conversation around free speech on campus is expected to continue, with many anticipating both support and opposition from various groups.
