The university’s leadership, in explicitly rejecting the student-led BDS resolution, demonstrates a commitment to maintaining a non-partisan approach in its investment decisions. This stance helps prevent divisive, politically motivated actions that can marginalize communities – notably, the Jewish community which condemned the resolution. From an anti-authoritarian perspective, the administration’s decision supports balanced governance and protects against the politicization of academic institutions.

Michigan State University Student Government Endorses Divestment From Israel

The student government’s passage of a bill that includes divisive language which singles out the state of Israel and marginalizes Jewish voices reflects a concerning use of political power. Such actions undermine inclusive democratic debate on campus and align with authoritarian tactics that stifle dissent.

Jewish Student Union, other Jewish student orgs condemn ASMSU divestment bill

The profile indicates that MSU is involved in significant political contributions and lobbying efforts. The fact that nearly $1 million was contributed and $260,000 spent on lobbying, coupled with data showing a high proportion of lobbyists with previous government roles, raises concerns about the reinforcement of entrenched power structures and potential influence over policy. From an anti-fascist perspective, this revolving door dynamic and political expenditure can be seen as contributing to an environment that favors established authoritarian interests.

Michigan State University Profile: Summary • OpenSecrets

The deployment of a comprehensive AI surveillance system that monitors 2,000 cameras and centralizes data under a Security Operations Center poses a significant risk of advancing repressive state technology. Even though MSU has introduced guidelines for ethical use and community feedback, the scale of surveillance and potential for misuse signals a concerning move towards authoritarian control and the erosion of privacy.

MSU to Install AI Video Surveillance System to Detect Threats

The deployment of an AI-based surveillance system, which tracks individual movements and license plate numbers, raises significant concerns from an anti-fascist perspective. Experts warn about its inaccuracy in low lighting and potential for implicit bias against minorities. Such technology, if misused or overly relied upon by security and law enforcement, can contribute to repressive oversight and authoritarian control, thereby justifying a negative rating in the Provision of Repressive Technologies category.

New surveillance system at Michigan State University is raising privacy concerns | umsi

The deployment of an AI-driven surveillance system on campus, although framed as a safety measure following a tragic shooting, employs repressive technology that risks infringing on privacy rights and could set a precedent for authoritarian monitoring. This aligns with concerns about the normalization of mass surveillance tools often associated with authoritarian regimes.

After shooting, MSU adding AI surveillance to detect threats, count people

The anticipated voluntary union recognition represents a proactive and progressive step towards strengthening labor relations and protecting faculty rights. By potentially sidestepping a contentious, formal MERC election process, MSU is supporting a fair and transparent process for workers, aligning with anti-authoritarian and pro-union values that safeguard marginalized groups within the academic community.

MSU tenured faculty expected to receive union recognition

The board’s proactive decision to recognize the union underscores a commitment to upholding fair labor practices and supporting faculty rights. This move represents a strong anti-authoritarian stance and aligns with progressive, worker-centered policies that benefit marginalized and labor communities.

MSU board says it will voluntarily recognize Union of Tenure Stream Faculty before April board meeting

The spending of $340,000 on lobbying by Michigan State University is seen as an exertion of political influence. While the amount is modest compared to large corporate spenders, lobbying activities inherently risk perpetuating undue influence over democratic processes. From an anti‐fascist perspective, such use of funds may steer policy in favor of institutional priorities at the potential expense of grassroots democratic accountability.

Michigan State University Lobbying Profile • OpenSecrets

The university's practice of mandating student funds for groups that not only engage in hate speech but also influence student governance in a biased manner underscores a problematic ethical stance in business practices, misusing public resources in a way that undermines accountable and inclusive institutional policies.

Michigan State University forces its students to fund antisemitism

The unionization effort by MSU's tenure-stream faculty is a strong pro-labor initiative aiming to counteract wage and benefit cuts and the erosion of academic freedom, reflecting robust support for worker rights and progressive labor practices. This action resists authoritarian management practices and enhances worker voice in university governance.

Tenure-stream faculty at Michigan State University begin union effort

The unionization drive by tenure-track faculty embodies a progressive effort to enhance labor rights and democratize academic governance. By organizing for better representation and collective bargaining power, the initiative challenges traditional hierarchical structures and promotes a more inclusive and equitable workplace, aligning with anti-authoritarian, anti-fascist principles.

MSU tenure-stream faculty launch union effort, leaders say 44% already support

The $340,000 lobbying expenditure by a major public research institution like Michigan State University is concerning from an anti-fascist perspective. Such spending suggests a deliberate effort to influence public policy in ways that may protect elite interests rather than prioritize marginalized communities. While transparency is provided through public records, the scale of spending raises questions about the potential for policy capture.

Michigan State University Lobbying Reports - OpenSecrets