Opinion: No One Wants to Ban Open Discussion of Words at Utah Universities

By Rep. John Johnson, Rep. Katy Hall and Rep. Karianne Lisonbee
Guest Opinion, Deseret News
Published December 15, 2025

Utah’s universities should be places where students can encounter challenging ideas, ask difficult questions and engage in open debate. In this guest opinion, Reps. John Johnson, Katy Hall and Karianne Lisonbee discuss the intent of HB261, Utah’s legislation addressing diversity, equity and inclusion in higher education, and argue that the law does not prohibit universities from discussing controversial subjects.

The authors explain that HB261 prohibits compelled belief and certain forms of discrimination, while preserving academic freedom for faculty and students. They emphasize that the law does not prohibit teaching or discussing subjects such as race, oppression, gender, American history, diversity, equity and inclusion, or critical race theory.

The opinion comes in response to controversy surrounding a scheduled speaking appearance at Weber State University, where author Darcie Little Badger withdrew after receiving a list of words and concepts she was asked to avoid. The authors argue that nothing in HB261 requires universities to restrict vocabulary or voluntary discussion of these subjects.

The authors also advocate for greater intellectual diversity on Utah campuses. They argue that universities should encourage structured debates, contrasting lectures and opportunities for students to engage with competing viewpoints rather than avoiding controversial subjects.

“The answer to speech we disagree with is not less speech. It is more speech.”

The opinion concludes by emphasizing the importance of creating university environments where students are encouraged to question ideas, engage in disagreement and develop the ability to thoughtfully evaluate competing arguments.

Read the full opinion at Deseret News:
Opinion: No one wants to ban open discussion of words at Utah universities

Originally published by Deseret News on December 15, 2025. Written by John Johnson, Katy Hall and Karianne Lisonbee, legislators in the Utah House of Representatives.