Upholding Freedom and Values: A Call for Equal Opportunity

In a passionate plea for the preservation of freedom and equality in the United States, Deviana Dewi, a PhD candidate at Johns Hopkins University, highlights a growing crisis affecting the nation’s foundational values. Dewi’s reflections, published on October 26, 2025, emphasize the importance of maintaining equal opportunity for all, particularly for skilled foreign workers who contribute significantly to the American economy.

Historical Context of American Innovation

Dewi’s journey to studying in the U.S. was inspired by the country’s unmatched reputation as a leader in knowledge and innovation, from the moon landing to advancements in health care. This legacy, she argues, can be traced back to substantial government investment in university research, particularly since the post-World War II era. In 1945, renowned wartime science advisor Vannevar Bush, commissioned by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, published “Science: The Endless Frontier,” advocating for federal support of basic research to enhance national security, economic growth, and public welfare.

The influx of global talent, particularly from Jewish exiles fleeing Nazi Germany, played a pivotal role in strengthening America’s scientific community. Dewi asserts that the U.S. has long embodied the ideals of freedom and bravery, allowing individuals to advocate for their values and pursue opportunities, regardless of their background.

Challenges to Freedom and Values

Despite her pride in being part of a prestigious research institution, Dewi identifies significant challenges to freedoms and values in contemporary America. She quotes Pope Saint John Paul II, stating, “Freedom consists not in doing what we like, but in having the right to do what we ought.” This principle underscores her argument that true freedom is accompanied by a responsibility to discern right from wrong, which is where the law becomes essential.

Dewi cites historical figures like Cicero and Theodore Roosevelt to illustrate the interconnectedness of law and freedom. She emphasizes that a society governed by law ensures the protection of individual liberties while promoting the common good. The erosion of this relationship, she warns, could lead to a society where the rule of law is undermined by partisan politics.

In her observations, Dewi expresses concern over political leaders who place themselves above the law. This trend, she argues, not only disrespects the foundational principles of democracy but also hinders constructive dialogue on policy issues. She notes that discussions often devolve into partisan debates that obscure the pursuit of truth.

Addressing the issue of values, Dewi highlights a recent White House proposal for a $100,000 application fee for skilled foreign worker visas (H-1B). She argues that such measures contradict the values of meritocracy and fairness that have historically defined the American job market. The proposed fee aims to prioritize American workers but risks alienating talented individuals who could contribute to the economy.

Additionally, the American Tech Workforce Act, introduced by Congressman Jim Banks, seeks to dismantle the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program. This program allows international graduates to gain valuable work experience in the U.S., serving as a critical pathway to employment. Dewi warns that these policies could drive skilled workers to countries with more welcoming immigration policies, undermining America’s competitive edge.

In her conclusion, Dewi calls on her peers, particularly international students, to engage with their elected representatives. She recounts her experience with a roommate who worked on Capitol Hill, noting how important it is for citizens to express their views. “The ability to ignore politics is privilege in action,” she states, emphasizing that awareness and activism are essential for safeguarding democracy.

As a Christian Catholic and an Indonesian, Dewi positions herself as a “witness of hope” in a divided political landscape. She encourages individuals to act on their convictions, reinforcing that hope is a catalyst for change. Her message resonates as a reminder that the pursuit of justice and truth must remain paramount in the face of evolving challenges.

As America navigates its complex political landscape, Dewi’s insights serve as a compelling reminder of the values that must be upheld to ensure equal opportunity for all.