Grand Valley State University: Political Litmus Test in Music Department’s Job Requirements

Case Materials

• "Victory for Freedom of Conscience at Grand Valley State University: Music Department Axes Political Litmus Test," July 28, 2009: Grand Valley State University (GVSU) has promised to remove "demonstrated commitment to the principles of diversity" from the stated job requirements for faculty seeking appointment to GVSU's Department of Music. The department will restate its requirements in terms of relevant experience, not vaguely worded personal commitments regarding a controversial political issue. The change came after FIRE asked GVSU to restore freedom of conscience on its campus.
• "Response from GVSU Counsel Thomas Butcher," July 9, 2009
• "FIRE Letter to Grand Valley State University President Thomas J. Haas," June 18, 2009
• "Job Listing for a Visiting Assistant Professor of Music (Flute)," April 17, 2009

Blog Entries

• "Victory for Freedom of Conscience at Grand Valley State University: Music Department Axes Political Litmus Test," by Peter Bonilla, July 28, 2009