Spring Quarter begins today at the University of Chicago, and it’s a unique time: the University is largely closed, including most academic buildings, most research labs, all administrative offices, and all dorms except those housing students who have no place to go. As with most colleges and universities, all classes will be taught remotely. Even the libraries—the heartbeat of the University—are closed for “the indefinite future.” This has never happened since the University was founded in 1890.

Yesterday we all received an email from President Robert Zimmer—yes, the man who let me tend the ducks—and I found it heartening because of its emphasis on free expression and open discourse, even in these parlous times. I don’t think I’m doing a Wikileaks thing by reproducing Zimmer’s email below. Emphases are mine.

To: Members of the University Community

From: Robert J. Zimmer

Subject: Spring Quarter

Date: April 5, 2020

This week our…