Resisting the Assault: Higher Education And The New Role of Faith-Based Communities

Welcome to ZOE U! These courses are designed to help our network's faith leaders grow in their capacity to mobilize for justice, peace, reconciliation, and beloved community.

In the current climate, the situation surrounding higher education in the United States is alarming. Actions taken during President Trump’s administration, such as denying visas to foreign students, highlight a larger issue. This approach targets critical values and policies that support independent institutions of learning. The implications of this trend are vast and should concern educators and students alike.

Reflecting on these challenges through my experiences with ZOE, a network of affiliated ministries across the nation, I recognize the vital role dialogue plays at this time. Many of our students and staff view the world through community support rather than direct activism, even if they resonate with the principles of social justice. This creates a pivotal opportunity for faith-based communities to advocate for the preservation of higher education when it faces such adversity.

Understanding the Current Landscape

The foundation of higher education in America is deeply rooted in progressive Christian values. Institutions like Harvard were established on principles of exploration and knowledge that overlook cultural and political divides. Today, the government views higher education as a battleground for cultural wars, specifically targeting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) efforts, aiming to dismantle them.

The statistics are telling: the number of foreign students enrolled in U.S. colleges dropped by 43% between 2019 and 2021, according to the Institute of International Education. This significant decline signals a concerning shift in the educational ecosystem, where initiatives aimed at fostering inclusivity are sidelined. If this trend continues, we could witness not just a loss of diversity in thoughts and ideas but a crisis in the very essence of academic inquiry.

The Role of Faith-Based Communities

In this challenging environment, faith-based communities hold a vital position. Many of our ministries have focused primarily on nurturing spiritual growth and community bonds. However, we must also commit to advocating for educational integrity. Our unique presence on campuses gives us the platform to share a constructive vision—one that prioritizes the values of secular higher education.

Faith-based organizations often represent the only Christian voice on many campuses, promoting an educational model that respects academic freedom and diverse views. It's essential that we recognize our responsibility in this struggle, especially in light of current tactics aimed at reshaping educational norms. For example, the Seven Mountains Mandate seeks to influence various societal sectors, including education.

We have witnessed disturbing trends in extremism and suppression of opinions, which make our advocacy all the more important. By fostering a conversation around these issues, we can work toward a more just and inclusive higher education landscape.

Navigating the Waters of Activism

While advocating for change is necessary, it’s equally important to engage thoughtfully. Our ministries should strive to be safe spaces where open discussions thrive, empowering students while safeguarding their voices. This balance is crucial, enabling students to express their thoughts without fear of judgment.

Encouraging dialogue fosters personal reflections on how faith intersects with educational values. For instance, discussions about the role of religion in classrooms can lead to deeper understanding and informed advocacy. Ultimately, these conversations can equip our community to respond to challenges with compassion and clarity.

Advocating for Independent Higher Education

We must proactively defend the principles that uphold independent secular education. We do not want an educational system that prioritizes conformity over intellectual exploration. Academic integrity must resist efforts to politicize research funding or restrict free speech in the name of ideology.

Our collective voice is essential. By taking a stand, we can articulate a compelling vision for a higher education system that embraces diverse ideas while remaining rooted in evidence. Advocating for shared governance among faculty and protecting tenure and free speech for students and staff should be our priorities.

Collaborative Advocacy

Collaboration will amplify our efforts. Partnering with campus organizations dedicated to social justice can create larger coalitions that oppose the current administration’s actions. By aligning with groups that share our values of education, inclusion, and inquiry, we can broaden our influence.

This coalition-building need not be limited to our immediate networks. Connecting with different faith communities and advocacy organizations can strengthen our resolve. Together, we can craft resonant messages that encourage dialogues within universities and in the broader community.

Rising to the Challenge

As we approach this crucial moment in higher education, it is our responsibility—especially as faith-based communities—to provide a counter-narrative to the ongoing threat. While many students and staff seek love and support in our ministries, we must invite them to use their voices to advocate for a system that truly values diverse thoughts, equity, and inclusion.

The Titanic may have hit an iceberg, but resignation is not the answer. Instead, we have a chance to reaffirm our commitment to the future of education and faith-driven exploration that upholds the highest ideals of intellectual pursuit. Let us rise to this occasion and ensure our dedication to sustaining diversity in higher education remains strong.

Image of an ecampment on a college campus.