Keep Kinsey Institute at Indiana University!
February 29, 2024
President Whitten and the Indiana University Board of Trustees
Office of the President
Indiana University
Bryan Hall 200
107 S. Indiana Ave.
Bloomington, IN 47405
Subject: Keep Kinsey at IU
Dear President Whitten & Trustees,
We are writing from the Woodhull Freedom Foundation to express our strong support for the Kinsey Institute at Indiana University as a crucial learning center and a beacon for the human right to education. The Woodhull Freedom Foundation is a national human rights organization focused on affirming sexual freedom as a fundamental human right. Since our founding in 2003, we have worked to protect access to education in our advocacy.
The Kinsey Institute, renowned for its dedication to the study of human sexuality, has played an invaluable role in advancing knowledge, promoting inclusivity, and fostering a culture of understanding. By providing a platform for scholarly research, education, and public outreach, the Kinsey Institute has significantly contributed to breaking down societal taboos surrounding human sexuality. Kinsey’s presence at Indiana University also affirms Article 26 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which states that “education shall be directed to the full development of the human personality and to the strengthening of respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms.”
As a learning center, the Kinsey Institute has been instrumental in promoting interdisciplinary research, attracting scholars from diverse fields to engage in meaningful dialogue and collaboration. Its commitment to academic excellence has enhanced Indiana University’s reputation and made substantial contributions to the global academic community.
Furthermore, the Kinsey Institute serves as a defender of the human right to education by providing a safe and inclusive space for individuals to explore and understand human sexuality without fear of discrimination or judgment. This aligns with academic freedom and equality principles, fostering an environment where all individuals can access knowledge and education without prejudice, regardless of their background.
In a world where misinformation and ignorance persist, institutions like the Kinsey Institute are pivotal in promoting evidence-based understanding and dismantling stigma. By supporting the Kinsey Institute, Indiana University demonstrates its commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive academic environment that upholds the fundamental human right to education.
We urge the Board of Trustees to recognize the significance of the Kinsey Institute and to continue providing the necessary resources and support to ensure its continued success as a leading center for learning and defender of the human right to education at Indiana University.
Thank you for your time and consideration. We trust that you will make decisions that align with the principles of academic freedom, human rights, inclusivity, and the pursuit of knowledge.
Sincerely,
Ricci Joy Levy
President & CEO
Woodhull Freedom Foundation