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Restore Free Speech at St. Johns

We, the students of St. John’s University, believe that the current policy regarding the registration of student organizations is fundamentally flawed and must be changed to uphold the values of free speech, equality, and the Catholic faith that our university promotes. As it stands, the policy grants the Student Government Association (SGA) the authority to approve or deny student organizations, creating an unfair system where groups, particularly minorities and those with differing political views, face unjust barriers in forming clubs. This process undermines the principles of free speech and assembly, which are not only guaranteed by the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution but are also deeply rooted in the Catholic mission of respect for all individuals and their rights.

At a Catholic institution like St. John’s, we are called to honor the dignity and conscience of every individual. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches us to speak the truth and defend the rights of others, as Proverbs 31:8-9 reminds us, “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those being crushed.” By allowing a small group of student representatives to control which organizations may exist, the current policy fails to reflect these values. Instead, it creates an unequal playing field where student organizations that do not align with the majority opinion of the SGA may be unfairly excluded, limiting the diversity of voices on campus

Restore Free Speech at St. Johns

We, the students of St. John’s University, believe that the current policy regarding the registration of student organizations is fundamentally flawed and must be changed to uphold the values of free speech, equality, and the Catholic faith that our university promotes. As it stands, the policy grants the Student Government Association (SGA) the authority to approve or deny student organizations, creating an unfair system where groups, particularly minorities and those with differing political views, face unjust barriers in forming clubs. This process undermines the principles of free speech and assembly, which are not only guaranteed by the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution but are also deeply rooted in the Catholic mission of respect for all individuals and their rights. At a Catholic institution like St. John's, we are called to honor the dignity and conscience of every individual. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches us to speak the truth and defend the rights of others, as Proverbs 31:8-9 reminds us, “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those being crushed.” By allowing a small group of student representatives to control which organizations may exist, the current policy fails to reflect these values. Instead, it creates an unequal playing field where student organizations that do not align with the majority opinion of the SGA may be unfairly excluded, limiting the diversity of voices on campus. Policy change is necessary to remove the authority of the SGA in determining the eligibility of student organizations. All student groups should have an equal opportunity to form, based solely on their adherence to basic university guidelines, without interference from student government. By transferring this responsibility to the university administration, we can ensure neutrality and fairness, while fostering an environment that truly encourages free speech, the exchange of ideas, and the formation of community. As students, we are not only asking for policy reform; we are asking St. John's University to stand by its own mission of academic excellence, wisdom through free inquiry, and the Catholic tradition of upholding the dignity of every person. We respectfully call on President Reverend Brian J. Shanley, O.P., to lead this change and ensure that St. John’s continues to be a place where all students, regardless of their background or beliefs, can freely express themselves and contribute to the campus community. By signing this petition, you stand for the values of free speech, equality, and respect that define both the U.S. Constitution and the Catholic faith. Together, we can protect the rights of every student at St. John's and create a campus where all voices are heard.

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