“We, a group of scholars and students from around the world, call on universities, faculties, and others to speak up for Chinese students and scholars at risk,” the letter reads.

“Traditionally, universities have prioritized their research interests, while overlooking threats to academic freedom and issues of censorship. Few universities acknowledge the disparity in students’ rights to speak, let alone provide support to students when persecuted by authoritarian countries like China.”

Signatures are current as of Feb. 17, and interested students and academics can still sign the letter. Signatories include academics from Georgetown University, Yale, the University of Chicago, and others who joined this international effort to advocate for former students.

[It’s time for Academia to choose between its stated principles and its cash. — Ed]