Commentary: Universities should defend students’ right to free speech, not aid their repression
In mid-April, the University of Southern California banned the school valedictorian from giving a commencement address for the first time in its history, following a pressure campaign by outside pro-Israel groups.
The university cited unspecified “security” risks. But valedictorian Asna Tabassum has said she believes it had something to do with the fact that she’s Muslim and has a minor in “resistance to genocide.” The administration apparently feared Tabassum would reference Israel’s ongoing assault on Gaza. Rather than let her speak, officials silenced her.
Not long after, Columbia University shut down a pro-Palestinian sit-in on campus. Students set up tents on the students presented no danger and were peaceful. Since then, hundreds more students have been taken over the quad. The encampment has been rebuilt.
