Excerpt from the Dayton Daily News
Ohio is on track to spend $35 million establishing civics centers at state public universities meant to combat perceived liberal bias by encouraging open discussion. But how each university is spending that money differs.
Wright State University’s Center for Civics, Culture, and Workforce Development is primarily focused on defense-related workforce development, including an aviation program and other efforts to support the military and Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.
The center also provides a state-mandated civics program with a mission including: “affirming the value of intellectual diversity through serious engagement with the Anglo-American conservative tradition alongside other major currents of thought,” according to the center’s website.
The mission statement also includes “examining the American experiment,” cultivating civil discourse and exploring a peaceful, pluralistic society.
“The reference to engaging with the Anglo-American conservative tradition alongside other major currents of thought reflects the Center’s commitment to exploring the broad range of ideas, traditions and perspectives,” said Deena John, a spokeswoman for Wright State University. “Students are encouraged to think critically, engage in thoughtful discussion, and develop the ability to understand and evaluate different viewpoints.”
The Ohio law establishing civics centers also banned university programs that support diversity, equity or inclusion. At WSU, this led to the closure programs such as the Bolinga Black Cultural Resources Center, Women’s Center and LGBTQA Center.
