Beginning in the 17th century, the movement of Liberalism upheld the ideals of individual freedom, intellectual liberty, and human progress. However, in the current political climate of 2016, liberals have turned their backs on the founding principles of the movement. In fact, 21st century liberals have charged forward in opposition to their core beliefs.

As a student at a small liberals arts college, I witness, and am told of multiple accounts of the suppression of ideas that don't coincide with political agenda adopted by the institution. Even more frightening is the utter disregard the institution has for students with religious beliefs and/or political views different than its own.

According to Franklin & Marshall's 2015-16 Efforts to Promote Diversity and Inclusion, it aims to seek to "consciously create an environment...that welcomes the contributions of different voices, and celebrates the collective strength of a campus community woven together from a diversity of human experiences and viewpoints."

However, in many cases, Franklin & Marshall has only offered one voice.

The most profound example that comes to mind is the Planned Parenthood visit on September 29, 2015. This single incidence truly opened by eyes to the hypocrisy of so-called "liberals." I am not supporting or condemning Planned Parenthood, but more so, criticizing the ignorance of Franklin & Marshall.

This Fall the school allowed the pro-choice organization to visit and set up tents in the center quad of campus. In my opinion, this kind of event is perfectly fine and can be very beneficial to college students who are passionate about the issues tackled by Planned Parenthood.

Nevertheless, the problem is that there has yet to be a pro-life organization, such as National Right to Life, to visit campus. How can an institution promote a healthy learning environment when there is only one side of an issue being presented?

The consequences of this kind of one-sided action are extremely detrimental to the development of a productive learning environment which includes the availability of multiple perspectives.

In order to foster the most rewarding learning environment, institutions should either allow groups from both sides of the spectrum to visit their campuses or none at all.

It is the duty of colleges and universities to provide students with multiple viewpoints and leave it to the students to form their own opinions.

I can only hope that over time, these institutions, such as my own, begin to recognize that their supposed "tolerance" is the intolerance dividing American society.

As a society based on freedom of expression, we should not shy away from debate and discussion. We must learn to embrace disagreement in order to cultivate the best and brightest ideas. After all, the only alternative to debate is suppression and that has been the downfall of many great civilizations before our own.