AN EDUCATOR  and artist of the Ateneo de Manila University urged the government to let ideas roam free as he opposed the removal of “subversive” from the libraries of several state universities.

Karl Castro said that freedom of thought should be the cornerstone of academic freedom and free speech.

Three universities — the Kalinga State University, Isabela State Univesity, and the Aklan State University — have pulled out books and reading materials either donated by the National Democratic Front or authored by its founding chairman, Jose Maria Sison.

Castro likened the scenario to the time of Jose Rizal when the national hero’s works were branded as subversive.

“Pursuant to these ideals, libraries must be spaces where all texts may be studied without fear. The NTF-ELCAC’s drive to expunge certain books from libraries violates all these freedoms. It further impoverishes free speech, and therefore our democracy,” Castro said on Facebook.

The educator called on people to stand up  on the matter.

“Defend freedom of thought and academic freedom! Defend the unending pursuit of knowledge! Assert democracy, oppose authoritarianism! Hands off our schools and libraries!” he said.