Mormon Stories Podcast

BYU Cracks Down on Liberal Professors | Ep. 1980

Jan 6, 2025
Brigham Young University faculty are grappling with new policies that enforce strict adherence to church teachings. Professors face job insecurity over social media activity and personal beliefs, with some losing their positions for supporting LGBTQ+ rights. The culture at BYU is shifting towards suppression of diverse thought, raising concerns about academic freedom and fear among faculty. As the university's rankings decline, discussions center on the impact of these changes and the pressing need for greater inclusivity and integrity within the institution.
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ANECDOTE

Bergman's Unease

  • Music professor Jason Bergman felt uneasy about the clampdown on LGBTQ+ activism at BYU.
  • This included shutting down rainbow displays on Y Mountain.
INSIGHT

Loyalty Oath Concerns

  • BYU introduced a loyalty oath contract requiring faculty to support the church's stance on social issues.
  • This raised concerns about implicit threats to career advancement for those who didn't sign.
ANECDOTE

Bergman's Silence and Departure

  • Bergman, a former bishop, feared discussing his faith struggles due to potential job repercussions.
  • He ultimately left BYU for Indiana University, feeling the environment wasn't safe for those outside the orthodox mold.
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