The limits of academic freedom when it comes to discussing Homosexuality

Crystal Dixon, associate vice president of human resources at the University of Toledo, was suspended for writing an op-ed that questioned whether there was significant discrimination against Homosexuals. As op-eds go, my impression is that it is a pretty mild one. Those interested can read it here. The piece makes two points.

I take great umbrage at the notion that those choosing the homosexual lifestyle are "civil rights victims." Here's why. I cannot wake up tomorrow and not be a Black woman. I am genetically and biologically a Black woman . . . . thousands of homosexuals make a life decision to leave the gay lifestyle evidenced by the growing population of PFOX (Parents and friends of Ex-Gays) . . . .

and

Economic data is irrefutable: The normative statistics for a homosexual in the USA include a Bachelor's degree: For gay men, the median household income is $83,000/yr. (Gay singles $62,000; gay couples living together $130,000), almost 80% above the median U.S. household income of $46,326, per census data. For lesbians, the median household income is $80,000/yr. (Lesbian singles $52,000; Lesbian couples living together $96,000); 36% of lesbians reported household incomes in excess of $100,000/yr. Compare that to the median income of the non-college educated Black male of $30,539. The data speaks for itself. . . . .

Possibly the worst thing that she may have done is mention God and that she is religious.

To me the most important point in her defense is that she did not identify her position as being that of the university. She did not even identify her current position at the university. She only mentioned that she was a graduate of the University of Toledo. Surely the first point is surely a common claim. I have no idea whether the numbers in the second point are true, but the objection isn't that they were wrong.

One point to consider: If she had written a piece say the opposite, what would have happened to her? Even if she had listed her affiliation at the university, nothing would have happened.