The documentary 'First They Came For My College' is a powerful and thought-provoking film that sheds light on a troubling trend in American academia. Directed and produced by Patrick Bresnan, this film offers a chilling glimpse into the ongoing battle for control of higher education, with a particular focus on the right-wing takeover of a Florida liberal arts school. The story is a cautionary tale that resonates with anyone concerned about the future of free speech and intellectual discourse in the United States.
The film's premise is a chilling one: a political coup orchestrated by Governor Ron DeSantis and his allies, aimed at transforming a public college into a right-wing stronghold. The documentary follows the journey of faculty and students who resist this takeover, exposing the administration's alleged cruelty, incompetence, and corruption. Bresnan's approach is intimate and immersive, embedding himself with the student newspaper, outspoken professors, and students from diverse political backgrounds.
One of the most striking aspects of the film is the personal connection Bresnan establishes with the subjects. He shares his love for the students and teachers, drawing a parallel between this story and his previous work on a segregated rural high school. This emotional investment adds a layer of depth to the documentary, making it more than just a political exposé.
The impact of the takeover is profound, as it threatens the very essence of higher education. The film highlights the attack on Critical Race Theory, the silencing of dissent, and the targeting of LGBTQ+ students and inclusive ideals. The resistance mounted by faculty and students is a testament to the power of collective action, but it also underscores the challenges they face.
Gabriella Batista, a New College student featured in the film, speaks to the resilience of the student body. Despite the attempts to stamp out their culture of radical acceptance, the students doubled down, resisted, and found strength in community. This resistance is a beacon of hope, showing that even in the face of adversity, the fight for academic freedom can be won.
The documentary's release is a call to action, urging viewers to defend and support the freedom to learn and express oneself. It serves as a warning to other schools and a reminder of the importance of academic freedom. Bresnan's statement at the Q&A session emphasizes the need to remember this period and prevent such a takeover from happening again.
In my opinion, 'First They Came For My College' is a must-watch for anyone interested in the future of education and the role of politics in shaping it. It is a powerful reminder of the fragility of academic freedom and the importance of standing up for it. Bresnan's personal connection to the story and his dedication to telling it make this documentary a compelling and thought-provoking watch.
