Aditi Agarwal, Special to The Denisonian–
A recent executive order—framed as a measure to combat anti-Semitism—has sent shockwaves through college campuses across the nation.
On its surface, the policy claims to protect Jewish students from harassment and violence, a goal no moral society should oppose. But embedded within its text lies a deeply troubling directive, universities must “monitor for and report activities by alien students.”
With this single phrase, the order shifts from a promise of protection to a blueprint for surveillance. It creates a culture of suspicion, where international students—many of whom came seeking the ideals of the land of opportunity, founded on free speech, and equal rights—find themselves scrutinized.
Given Denison’s strong international student presence of 17%, this issue matters to many within the community. Instead of engaging freely in intellectual discourse, a quarter of us now face a troubling question: will my participation in a peaceful rally or a political forum put me under scrutiny? Will I be reported—not for breaking any law, but for simply exercising my voice?
Last week, we held a small discussion group—nothing too scandalous; students in an oval seating, exchanging thoughts on campus policies, activism, and the limits of free speech (while we can still do that).
No secret handshakes, no covert plots to overthrow the campus dining hall—just a bunch of students daring to debate their opinions.
One student said some older and non-international students have intentionally taken risks during demonstrations, recognizing that they are in a stronger position to handle any potential consequences compared to younger students or those on visas. Their goal is to help students understand their rights, assess the risks involved, and engage in activism in a way that is sustainable over the long term.
Another student emphasized the importance of having politically outspoken students on campus, believing it to be a crucial part of a liberal arts education—one that is currently facing challenges.
Wait, but is it under threat? This makes me think, do demonstrations always break the rules?
By definition, demonstrations challenge the status quo. But whether they break the rules depends on how we define “rules”—and whose interests those rules serve. But I have another question, are administrators actually expected to “monitor” students’ political activities?
Another discussion point was that a common misconception, often reinforced by the administration, is that they operate on the same level as students, working as equals. However, this could be considered a typical power dynamic, where those in authority claim to be aligned with those who lack power. While this portrayal may not reflect reality, it is an image the administration continues to uphold, some students said.
I’ve seen it firsthand—only a couple of faculty join us, while administrators stand with the police. That memory shapes my understanding of them. And it’s why I’m worried about these executive orders; they only add pressure on international students, and that’s deeply concerning for our community.”
I think the real problem isn’t the university administration—it’s the rhetoric being pushed, targeting every non-U.S. citizen on American soil. Framing this as a battle between students and administrators distracts from what’s actually at stake.
To put it another way, blaming the administration is like blaming a family member for not earning enough money. You can demand that they do more (which they probably can), but to what extent? Does the system allow them to? Can they take action without jeopardizing their own existence? Understandably, the university has no official stance on this matter.
A student acknowledged the concern that a public statement from Denison could draw unwanted attention and potentially put vulnerable students at risk. However, they also expressed frustration over the complete absence of internal recognition. They noted that even periodic community updates have failed to offer any reassurance or acknowledgment, such as a simple gesture to say, “We see you, and we care about your well-being.”
I’m not writing this to pronounce a verdict on a conflict that’s lasted generations and crossed borders, nor would I recommend misdirecting blame. However, with so many executive orders passing so quickly, we need to pause, step back, and look at the rhetoric taking shape.
To the man behind this brilliance, if the First Amendment doesn’t ask for a passport, neither should you.
To the Denison community, stop by Slayter Table 03 on Feb. 27, from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM for the Know Your Rights Tabling event. This was organized with the support of SJP, whose efforts have been instrumental in shaping this conversation. The event aims to equip students with essential knowledge of policy shifts under Trump. Don’t miss this important conversation.
Aditi Agarwal ‘26 is a philosophy, politics and economics major from Kolkata, India.