The author shares their experience of witnessing and being affected by campus protests while a student at Harvard Law School in the 1990s. The campus was divided over various social and political issues, with protests becoming increasingly volatile. This experience led the author to choose a career path focused on defending free speech, influenced by the Supreme Court’s stance on the importance of academic freedom. Over the years, they have observed and participated in numerous protests on various campuses, leading them to conclude that campus culture plays a significant role in shaping the boundaries of debate.
The author outlines the complexities surrounding campus protests, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing between free speech, civil disobedience, and outright lawlessness. They argue that universities should aim to protect free speech, respect peaceful civil disobedience, and uphold the rule of law. This involves ensuring equal rights for all members of the campus community, regardless of their ideological beliefs, while also implementing reasonable time, place, and manner restrictions to prevent disruptions and promote inclusivity. True civil disobedience is encouraged but must be conducted thoughtfully and lawfully.
The author highlights instances where universities have failed to maintain neutrality and uphold academic values in response to protests. They recount cases where school administrators have shown favoritism towards certain activist groups, leading to a culture of impunity for radical students and undermining the educational experience for others. By contrast, they praise schools like Vanderbilt University and the University of Chicago for their commitment to institutional neutrality and the protection of free speech, even in moments of crisis.
The author criticizes extreme responses to campus protests, citing examples where universities have either capitulated to chaos or taken overly harsh measures like expulsion or police violence against protesters. They warn against such approaches, emphasizing the importance of handling protests peacefully and lawfully to protect the rights and safety of students. As universities navigate complex social and political issues, they advocate for a principled stance that upholds free speech, academic freedom, and the rule of law to ensure a conducive environment for learning and debate.
Looking ahead to the future, the author urges universities to take a stand in protecting free speech, respecting civil disobedience, and upholding the rule of law on campus. With ongoing conflicts and tensions around the world, they stress the importance of maintaining a peaceful and inclusive campus environment where diverse opinions can be expressed without resorting to violence or chaos. By embracing these principles, universities can navigate contentious issues and support a community of scholars dedicated to intellectual inquiry and respectful discourse.
