Free Speech on campus

This evening, as J-school Senator, I met with other members of the Student Affairs Committee of the University Senate. In that meeting we agreed upon the following resolution:

RESOLUTION ON FREE SPEECH AT COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY

WHEREAS, Columbia University and its community has the responsibility to do everything possible to ensure that we all have the ability to express our intellectual freedom within our institution, and

WHEREAS, the Student Body of Columbia University has a right to invite speakers with varied points of view to campus, and it is unacceptable within our community, to take away someone else’s right to express their opinions and viewpoints, and

WHEREAS, the Student Affairs Caucus represents the entire student body of Columbia University,

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Student Affairs Caucus stands behind the principles of free speech on campus, and demands that the Columbia University Community stand firm in our commitment to allow all views to be heard.


Student Affairs Committee


The immediate catalyst for this resolution was Wednesday's night's presentation by the Minutemen and the demonstrations in Lerner Hall.

President Bollinger has spoken on this issue via email, and our student's committee had a lively debate this evening. For the record, I believe I reflected the majority of us as journalists who endorse a wide interpretation of the first amendment and broad usage of free speech.

This topic along with other incidents of intolerance on campus is beng raised. I can provide details, and I welcome all questions/comments. In addition, we are initiating the process to change univ. policy regarding the licensing of compounds used for generic drugs in developing nations. If anyone is interested in this topic, please let me know.