Today, Explained Columbia’s free-speech fight
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Apr 24, 2024 
Sarah Huddleston, news editor at Columbia University’s Daily Spectator, shares insights from the frontline of campus protests tied to the Gaza conflict. Irene Mulvey, President of the American Association of University Professors, highlights the broader implications for free speech and academic freedom in today’s politically charged climate. The discussion dives into the complexities of student activism, the challenges of maintaining safety during protests, and the urgent need to uphold open debate amidst rising tensions on campus.
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Columbia University Protests
- Columbia University closed its campus to non-affiliates and moved classes online due to protests.
- Protests began in October 2023 and escalated with the involvement of the NYPD, leading to student arrests and interim suspensions.
Escalation of Attacks on Higher Education
- Recent events highlight the increasing challenges to academic freedom and the role of higher education in a democracy.
- Attacks on higher education are escalating from targeting individual professors to entire institutions.
Navigating Campus Free Speech
- Prioritize educational discourse and open debate, even when viewpoints are polarized.
- Protect student safety without suppressing speech by fostering dialogue and discussion.