Censorship of Student Newspapers has No Place in America

By: Maya Tinajero, Skyline Desk-Chief and Eliya Alvidrez, Skyline Editor

Journalism is many things. It is a profession, an art, and a community. That community is never more important than when one of us is under attack.

On October 14, Indiana University decided to cut its award-winning printed version of The Indiana Daily Student. This cut followed the firing of the paper's advisor and student media director Jim Rodenbush. Rodenbush reportedly had several discussions with Media School administrators during which he was told that they expected IDS’s printed edition to refrain from reporting any news.

Following a week of heavy criticism, Indiana University’s Media School announced it is planning on creating a task force “to develop recommendations ensuring both the editorial independence and financial sustainability of student media at IU.”

This announcement does nothing to erase the blatant censorship allowed by the Media School of Indiana University. Freedom of the press is one of the most important rights U.S. citizens have. Choosing what to report is not just a profession; it very well sets the tone for how communities, cities, and even countries operate and interact with each other. As a student-run newspaper, the Skyline knows that a threat to one student paper is a threat to all of us.

At Sul Ross State University, our newspaper proudly features a Spanish-language section called El Diario. Located in West Texas—where 47.6% of the population is Hispanic—our university reflects that diversity, with a student body made up largely of individuals of Hispanic heritage. We believe it’s essential to maintain a meaningful connection with our audience, which is why we’re committed to cultivating strong ties with our community. El Diario isn’t just about translation—it’s about representation, inclusion, and celebrating the voices of those we serve.

But with freedom of the press continuing to face restrictions across the country, many college journalists are left wondering what they can or cannot say in their student-led publications without facing consequences.

For Sul Ross reporters, concerns run much deeper. Since we also bring a Spanish-language perspective to news reporting, censorship isn’t the only challenge we face.

Being one of the only newspapers that publishes in both English and Spanish, we hold the responsibility of standing firm on the belief that voices should be heard in every way. However, the recent federal grant cuts to Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs) have left us on our toes. Programs that serve large numbers of Hispanic students are being terminated. Taking away these resources could eventually threaten outlets such as El Diario.

It’s a double-whammy for The Skyline. Not only do our student journalists have to worry about their expression of writing being under attack, but they’re also faced with the fear of being censored simply because it is translated into Spanish. This goes on to be highly challenging to underrepresented groups such as Hispanic journalists and reporters, who frequently find themselves fighting an endless battle politically and culturally.

While these challenges aim to expose weaknesses, they demonstrate perseverance and showcase just how important the profession of journalism is, particularly during times of instability. Press freedom stands in an uncertain position and must be considered carefully and defended.

Adversity has made The Skyline’s mission even more important. Our goal is to continue building the bond between English and Spanish readers. They are the foundation of our student-led publication and shape our culture and identity.

We are living in an era that continues to be one of the most contentious periods between the people and the press. Student journalists must stand their ground and remember our purpose: inspire, inform, and empower. Those are the things that make journalism worth fighting for.