On Thursday, the University of California passed a test when a conservative speaker came on campus and nearly 1,000 protesters gathered. And while there were some arrests, the Berkeley police reported no injuries due to violence and no reports of property damage.
It was a test for what’s to come. More right-wingers seeking to make a point on the campus known for its historical radical legacy. UC seems ready to let everyone have their say.
As I’ve always said, universities don’t have a free speech problem. Higher ed has a “how to present free speech events” problem where every interest gets to chime in.
Last week proves that colleges, in conjunction with public agencies, are more than equipped to protect everyone’s right to the First Amendment.
But that doesn’t mean we don’t have a First Amendment crisis in this country.
In our hypersensitive world where the rising tide of voices lifts all coarseness, free speech is still free.
But it comes at a price. You’ve got to be willing to argue for your right to it and be willing to be heard above the din.
