A new documentary, *First They Came for My College*, explores the fierce struggle for academic independence at New College of Florida, which has become a focal point in the ongoing national debate over educational policy and ideological control. This small liberal arts institution, which once thrived as a bastion of progressive thought, has faced significant upheaval following Governor Ron DeSantis’s controversial interventions that aim to reshape higher education in Florida.
A Sanctuary Undermined
Established over five decades ago, New College has long been celebrated for its unique approach to education, fostering an environment of intellectual curiosity and inclusivity. However, in 2023, the institution was thrust into a political maelstrom as DeSantis, in his campaign against what he labels “woke” ideology, dismantled the board of trustees and replaced it with a cadre of right-wing allies. This shake-up was aimed at remoulding the college into a conservative institution akin to Michigan’s Hillsdale College.
The consequences were immediate and drastic. Books authored by Black and Indigenous writers were removed from library shelves, alongside the abrupt closure of the gender studies department, with many resources callously discarded. The campus atmosphere shifted, as a once-vibrant community became a space where students felt compelled to hide their identities. “The confusion was palpable,” recalls Gaby Batista, a former student and protest leader, who noted that many students suddenly found themselves grappling with issues of governance that had previously felt remote.
A Fight for the Future
The documentary, directed by Patrick Bresnan and produced by New College alumnus Harry W. Hanbury, goes beyond mere documentation; it captures the essence of a community fighting back against an ideological takeover. The film highlights the emotions of the students as they navigate this turbulent period. Batista describes the institution as a “queer utopia” that once offered refuge and acceptance, a stark contrast to the current climate of fear and repression.
Both Bresnan and Hanbury were deeply moved upon their return to the campus, with Hanbury expressing sorrow at witnessing the transformation of a place that had once shaped his life. The duo determined that their project would focus not only on the events themselves but also on the students’ experiences, placing them at the forefront of the narrative. This approach involved equipping students with cameras to capture their own stories, thereby fostering a sense of agency and collaboration.
Resistance through Creativity
The film poignantly showcases how students have responded to the tightening grip of authority on their educational environment. With official channels for support dwindling, they turned to each other to forge a sense of community. “We have to bring back the queer traditions,” one student states, highlighting the importance of resilience and cultural expression. This led to events like exuberant drag performances and communal gatherings, where students could reclaim their identities and celebrate their heritage.
As tensions escalated, the impact of DeSantis’s policies became increasingly evident. In a striking moment captured on film, students confronted the governor during a campus visit, chanting slogans like “Only Nazis ban books.” These protests became a cathartic outlet for students grappling with a sense of loss and anger. Batista reflects on this pivotal moment, noting how it invigorated the student body to vocalise their frustrations.
A Broader Implication
*First They Came for My College* serves as a cautionary tale about the fragility of academic freedom in the face of political machinations. The filmmakers aim to spark broader conversations around the purpose of universities. “What are universities for?” one student asks, prompting viewers to consider whether institutions of higher learning should serve as profit-driven entities or as spaces for expanding knowledge and fostering societal progress.
The documentary situates New College’s struggles within wider national trends, particularly the Trump administration’s aggressive stance on educational funding and policy. The filmmakers argue that New College represents a microcosm of a larger battle for the future of education in America, with its fate reflecting the broader implications of ideological control on academic institutions.
Why it Matters
The events at New College resonate far beyond its campus, serving as a stark warning about the potential erosion of academic freedom across the United States. As educational institutions grapple with external pressures to conform to political ideologies, *First They Came for My College* invites audiences to reflect on the fundamental purpose of higher education. It challenges viewers to consider the vital importance of protecting spaces that encourage diversity of thought, creativity, and open dialogue—elements essential for the progress of society as a whole. In a time when such freedoms are under threat, the film stands as a crucial reminder of the power of community resilience and the need to safeguard educational integrity.
