A new documentary, *First They Came For My College*, captures the tumultuous struggle for academic freedom at New College of Florida, following a controversial takeover led by Governor Ron DeSantis. The film offers an intimate look at how the institution, once celebrated for its progressive ethos, has been transformed into a focal point of political contention in the fight against what some perceive as a “war on woke” ideology.
Transformation Under Political Pressure
In less than a year, New College went from being a bastion of independent thought to a battleground for political ideology. Under DeSantis’s administration, the state government intervened decisively in the school’s governance, ousting its board members and replacing them with individuals aligned with conservative values. This shift has aimed to reshape New College into a conservative institution reminiscent of Michigan’s Hillsdale College, known for its evangelical educational approach.
The repercussions of this political shift have been profound. Books authored by Black and Indigenous writers were removed from library shelves, and entire departments, including gender studies, were dismantled. Students reported a chilling atmosphere on campus, with many feeling compelled to hide their identities due to fears of harassment. The university’s once-vibrant community spaces were repurposed, with the community garden and its serene koi pond replaced by plans for a baseball stadium.
Students Mobilise for Change
The documentary features voices from the campus, including Gaby Batista, a former student and protest leader, who articulates the shock and confusion felt by many when the board’s actions became personal. “As a student at a public university, you don’t expect to have to learn the names of your board of trustees or see their decisions directly impacting your education,” she reflects.
*First They Came For My College* chronicles how this small institution of approximately 700 students became emblematic of broader struggles in higher education across the United States. The filmmakers, led by director Patrick Bresnan and producer Harry W. Hanbury, sought to present an authentic portrayal of the students’ experiences. They invested in building relationships with the student body rather than focusing on traditional production methods, resulting in a film that resonates with genuine angst and resilience.
A Community of Resistance
As the documentary progresses, it highlights the diverse forms of resistance that emerged among students. With institutional protections eroding, students turned to one another for support, reviving traditions and hosting events that celebrated their identities. They organised vibrant performances, including a spirited rendition of *The Rocky Horror Picture Show*, creating a sense of community amid adversity.
Bresnan’s decision to equip students with cameras allowed them to document their experiences and convey their stories in their own words. This approach not only enriched the film’s narrative but also empowered the students, showcasing their agency in a volatile environment. One poignant moment captured in the film features students protesting DeSantis’s presence on campus, chanting phrases like “Only Nazis ban books,” underscoring their determination to reclaim their educational space.
The Broader Implications
The filmmakers intend for *First They Came For My College* to serve as a cautionary tale about the fragility of academic freedom in the face of political agendas. The documentary raises pressing questions about the role of universities in society: Are they merely institutions for wealth extraction, or should they be places that foster intellectual growth and expand human understanding?
With the Trump administration’s actions leading to significant cuts in funding for universities that resist its policies, the implications of this struggle extend far beyond New College. A recent study by Scholars at Risk labelled the current administration’s tactics as a “model for dismantling” academic freedom, marking a troubling trend in the landscape of higher education.
Why it Matters
*First They Came For My College* serves as a crucial reminder of the ongoing challenges facing institutions of higher learning in the United States. As academic freedom comes under assault, the documentary not only documents a pivotal moment in Florida’s educational history but also invites viewers to reflect on the broader implications for democracy and civil rights. The experiences of New College students illustrate the importance of defending inclusive and diverse educational environments, emphasising that the fight for academic freedom is a fight for the very soul of education itself.
