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In reply to the discussion: USC says it's canceling pro-Palestinian valedictorian's speech over security concerns [View all]mahatmakanejeeves
(57,853 posts)13. Public v. private universities
What you said. From FIRE:
Private Universities
RESEARCH & LEARN
When discussing free speech on campus, it is important to understand the relevance of the First Amendment to private and public institutions.
As state agents, all public colleges and universities are legally bound to respect the constitutional rights of their students. That the protections of the First Amendment apply on public campuses is well-settled law.
Private universities are not directly bound by the First Amendment, which limits only government action. However, the vast majority of private universities have traditionally viewed themselvesand sold themselvesas bastions of free thought and expression. Accordingly, private colleges and universities should be held to the standard that they themselves establish. If a private college advertises itself as a place where free speech is esteemed and protectedas most of them dothen it should be held to the same standard as a public institution.
Furthermore, private colleges and universities are contractually bound to respect the promises they make to students. Many institutions promise freedom of expression in university promotional materials and student conduct policies, but then deliver selective censorship once the first tuition check is cashed. They may not be bound by the First Amendment, but private institutions are still legally obligated to provide what they promise. Private institutions may not engage in fraud or breach of contract.
It is important to note, however, that if a private college wishes to place a particular set of moral, philosophical, or religious teachings above a commitment to free expression, it has every right to do so. The freedom to associate voluntarily with others around common goals or beliefs is an integral part of a pluralistic and free society. If a private university states clearly and publicly that it values other commitments more highly than freedom of expression, that institution has considerably more leeway in imposing its views on students, who have given their informed consent by choosing to attend.
RESEARCH & LEARN
When discussing free speech on campus, it is important to understand the relevance of the First Amendment to private and public institutions.
As state agents, all public colleges and universities are legally bound to respect the constitutional rights of their students. That the protections of the First Amendment apply on public campuses is well-settled law.
Private universities are not directly bound by the First Amendment, which limits only government action. However, the vast majority of private universities have traditionally viewed themselvesand sold themselvesas bastions of free thought and expression. Accordingly, private colleges and universities should be held to the standard that they themselves establish. If a private college advertises itself as a place where free speech is esteemed and protectedas most of them dothen it should be held to the same standard as a public institution.
Furthermore, private colleges and universities are contractually bound to respect the promises they make to students. Many institutions promise freedom of expression in university promotional materials and student conduct policies, but then deliver selective censorship once the first tuition check is cashed. They may not be bound by the First Amendment, but private institutions are still legally obligated to provide what they promise. Private institutions may not engage in fraud or breach of contract.
It is important to note, however, that if a private college wishes to place a particular set of moral, philosophical, or religious teachings above a commitment to free expression, it has every right to do so. The freedom to associate voluntarily with others around common goals or beliefs is an integral part of a pluralistic and free society. If a private university states clearly and publicly that it values other commitments more highly than freedom of expression, that institution has considerably more leeway in imposing its views on students, who have given their informed consent by choosing to attend.
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USC says it's canceling pro-Palestinian valedictorian's speech over security concerns [View all]
Coventina
Apr 16
OP
Being that this is government action, free speech is very much a concern here.
Cuthbert Allgood
Apr 16
#2
Slow down; this is not my vision; this is the vision of many like Asna Tabassum.
Big Blue Marble
Apr 16
#42
Calling for the end of Israel is antisemitic and calling for the eradication of Jews.
Coventina
Apr 16
#53
That is your opinion and we will just have to disagree on both counts. N/T
Big Blue Marble
Apr 16
#54
As Wikipedia itself notes, there is no reference when the alleged support increased
sarisataka
Apr 16
#49
Not to mention the Palestinian Authority has a "Pay to Slay" program that rewards
Coventina
Apr 16
#39
I also want a two-state solution, but that is not what this student is advocating. n/t
Coventina
Apr 17
#81
The Question is Open as to Whether a Jewish Ethno-State is Justified Considering the Holocaust
Giordano Burno
Apr 16
#7
You comparing the nation of Israel to a slave-based plantation is extremely gross and offensive.
Coventina
Apr 17
#62
Her social media posts called for the "complete abolishment of the state of Israel."
SunSeeker
Apr 17
#59
Are you suggesting USC should give its mic to someone who believes Israel should be "completely abolished"?
SunSeeker
Apr 17
#71