A new documentary, *First They Came for My College*, delves into the ongoing struggle for academic freedom at Florida’s New College, which has increasingly become a focal point in the contentious debate surrounding higher education under Governor Ron DeSantis. The film captures the turmoil experienced by students and faculty since the governor’s intervention, which aimed to reshape the institution into a conservative stronghold.
A Sudden Transformation
Established over 50 years ago as a bastion of liberal arts education, New College faced drastic changes in 2023 when DeSantis dismantled its board of trustees, replacing them with a cadre of right-wing supporters. This move was part of a broader initiative to eradicate what DeSantis and his allies termed “woke ideology” from educational institutions. The impact was immediate and severe; library shelves were cleared of works by Black and Indigenous authors, while the gender studies programme was abruptly discontinued.
According to former student Gaby Batista, who played a pivotal role in protests against these changes, the atmosphere on campus transformed dramatically. “The confusion was palpable,” she remarked, highlighting how students were unprepared for the direct involvement of state officials in their academic lives. This sense of upheaval created a sense of urgency among the student body to reclaim their institution.
The Documentary’s Insight
*First They Came for My College* chronicles the events that unfolded at New College, focusing on how a student body of just 700 became a microcosm of the national debate over educational freedom. The film, produced by Harry W. Hanbury, features emotional testimonies and raw footage of protests, capturing the students’ reactions to DeSantis’s policies, including his controversial ban on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programmes.
Hanbury, who was deeply affected by the changes at his alma mater, expressed his concern upon learning of the board’s takeover. “These Christian nationalists posed a real threat,” he stated, emphasising the urgency felt by alumni and students alike. The filmmakers sought to authentically represent the student experience by involving them in the documentary process, providing them with cameras to document their protests and reflections.
Student Resistance and Solidarity
As the political climate grew increasingly hostile, students found solace in each other, rallying to preserve the school’s unique culture. They organised events that celebrated their identities and traditions, including lively drag performances and gatherings that fostered a sense of community. “We have to bring back the queer traditions,” one student expressed, underscoring the importance of maintaining their cultural heritage amidst adversity.
The film also raises critical questions about the purpose of universities. As one student poignantly asked, “Are they businesses to extract wealth from people, or are they places where we expand consciousness?” This discussion highlights the broader implications of the political assault on educational institutions, reflecting a national trend that prioritises conformity over intellectual diversity.
The Bigger Picture
The release of *First They Came for My College* comes at a time when the Trump administration’s influence continues to reshape higher education, with funding cuts threatening institutions that resist adherence to conservative ideologies. A recent report by the advocacy group Scholars at Risk suggests that the U.S. is becoming a model for dismantling academic freedom, an alarming trend that resonates through the experiences of New College students.
Filmmaker Patrick Bresnan describes the documentary as a cautionary tale, warning of the potential consequences of allowing political agendas to dictate educational policies. “This is fascism,” he asserts, emphasising the seriousness of the situation. He hopes that future generations will reflect on this period with incredulity, just as they do regarding past civil rights struggles.
Why it Matters
The story of New College serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of academic freedom in the face of political intervention. *First They Came for My College* not only documents a critical moment in higher education but also galvanises viewers to consider the broader implications of such transformations. As students and educators continue to fight for their rights, this film stands as a testament to the resilience of those who dare to challenge oppressive systems, making it essential viewing for anyone invested in the future of education.
