Politics & Protest

Did you join a group or political movement? Did you march? Write a letter to the editor? Check out sample FBI files from the University Archives, rally posters, bumper stickers, and more. As Carol Hanisch wrote in her 1969 essay, “The personal is political.”

FBI Document

At the height of the anti-war movement, in 1968-71, the FBI conducted surveillance of suspected groups on the UI campus, including the local chapter of Students for a Democratic Society (SDS). Heavily-redacted files of the FBI’s activity were obtained by the Des Moines Register under the Freedom of Information Act many years later and are housed at UI Archives.

Poster of Marion Huit, dean of students and ombudsman to students

Marion Huit served as dean of students and the University’s ombudsman for more than 30 years. During the peak of student unrest, in 1970, he held “office hours” to meet with students about their concerns.

Vietnam moratorium Oct 15 Agenda

Poster promoting Vietnam War Moratorium, October 1969

Flier promoting March for Peace, May 1970

Work for Peace

Flier promoting the March for Peace, May 1970

Flyer, urging students and staff to go on strike

A flyer, ca 1970 urging students and staff to go on strike

Heloise's Helpful Hints

Heloise’s Helpful Hints’ was a play on the then-popular syndicated newspaper column. This particular flier, ca 1970, includes tips on reacting to tear gas and wearing appropriate attire and equipment, if available.

Larry Barrett participating in a protest, circa 1964-1968

The photo depicts a mixed group of protestors: some faculty, spouses, townspeople, and students. The photo may have been taken by a Daily Iowan photographer.

Action Studies Poster

This Action Studies poster provides a snapshot of the diverse and socially engaged curriculum offered during the spring semester. The courses and activities reflect the spirit of the late 1960s, addressing contemporary issues and embracing alternative forms of education. The poster showcases a range of topics, including the poetry of resistance, women’s liberation, Edgar Cayce readings, organic gardening, film and social change, science fiction writing, men against sexism, and more. The inclusion of the Prairie Dog Project, described as a free school-community, aligns with the steering committee’s vision outlined in the “Action Studies Program” report. This initiative, driven by the Institute of Syntropic Studies, connects various elements such as Buckminster Fuller’s ideas, meditation workshops, and the greening of America, fostering a holistic approach to education. The poster encourages engagement, inviting students to seek course information, propose ideas, teach courses, or simply engage in discussions at the Action Studies office in the Jefferson Building. The interconnectedness between the poster and the steering committee’s report suggests a collective effort to explore progressive educational approaches and address societal concerns at the University of Iowa during this historical period.

Compost Guide

Compost was intended to be a resource guide aimed at sharing information about various services and opportunities in Iowa City, focusing on aspects like daycares, preschools, women’s liberation, children’s liberation, employment, medical services, and more.
In the historical context, this guide reflects the community-driven efforts of individuals and organizations to share information and resources. The creators acknowledge the limitations and potential inaccuracies in the guide while expressing the intention to improve and expand it based on feedback from the community.
The document encapsulates a snapshot of the sociocultural landscape of Iowa City in 1971, showcasing the community’s engagement in addressing various needs and fostering a sense of collective support. It aligns with the spirit of the time, emphasizing community collaboration and grassroots initiatives.

Action Studies founding Document

The 1968 report from the steering committee of the “Action Studies Program” outlines the University of Iowa’s program origins and objectives. Formed in response to a Faculty Senate resolution encouraging discussion of contemporary issues, the program seeks to facilitate the study and discussion of immediate concerns for faculty and students. President Bowen appointed a committee, including Dr. Schoer, to develop the program, emphasizing a facilitating role and avoiding an additional layer in the university structure. The Action Studies Program spans various initiatives like noncredit courses, discussions, seminars, and conferences, aiming to contribute significantly to the academic and student life at the University of Iowa. The report acknowledges potential mistakes in the early stages but expresses a commitment to improvement and welcomes suggestions from faculty members for program enhancements.

Is Peace Possible?' brochure

In 1966, the Associated Women Students, an interdormitory governing council, sponsored a forum addressing growing U.S. military involvement in Vietnam.

2 log sheets, Center for Draft Information and Counseling, 1971

Log sheets from the Center for Draft Information and Counseling, 1971

The Center for Draft Information and Counseling was established in 1971. This log sheet documents inquiries from draft-eligible men, both on campus and from elsewhere in Iowa, concerning their status and options.

Draft info brochure

Brochure issued by the Center for Draft Information and Counseling, 1971

Student protest at Iowa, Spring 1969

A photographic essay by Dave Luck, designed and printed in Typography Laboratory, University of Iowa School of Journalism, Spring 1969

Student Protest Vertical File Folders

A collection of clippings from the Daily Iowan and other newspapers documenting student anti-war protests from 1965-1973.