free speech

‘Like a war zone’: Emory University grapples with fallout from police response to protest

Georgia is making headlines once again, but this time for all the wrong reasons. Emory University is currently grappling with the fallout from the police response to a protest on campus. As an Emory graduate, I am disheartened and outraged by the excessive use of force against unarmed protestors. It is absurd to think that in the state of Georgia, a barber requires more training than a state trooper. The fact that armed shooters are met with complacency while peaceful protestors are met with aggression is a stark reminder of the skewed priorities of law enforcement.

The scenes of police brutality at Emory University are reminiscent of past atrocities where authorities have used excessive force to crush dissent.… Continue reading

University of Texas Palestine protest leads to more than 30 arrests, including FOX 7 photographer

As I sit here reflecting on the recent events at the University of Texas Palestine protest, I find myself grappling with a myriad of emotions. The fact that over 30 individuals, including a FOX 7 photographer, were arrested during a peaceful demonstration is both troubling and disheartening. It raises important questions about the limits of free speech and the right to peaceful protest in our society.

It is concerning to see the swift response of Texas police to a protest on a college campus, especially when contrasted with the lack of action in response to other pressing issues, such as campus sexual assaults or instances of hate speech.… Continue reading

More than 100 protesters arrested as police clear Emerson College encampment

In the midst of ongoing tension and turmoil, more than 100 protesters were arrested as police cleared an encampment at Emerson College. The scene of students peacefully protesting, advocating for their beliefs, suddenly turned into a chaotic display of law enforcement intervention. The question that arises is whether these arrests truly serve to deescalate the situation or further ignite the flames of dissent.

The swift action taken by authorities to disband the encampment raises concerns about the treatment of peaceful protesters. It seems contradictory that students expressing their opinions are met with handcuffs and legal repercussions, while those involved in violent acts against democracy are often allowed to go unpunished or face minimal consequences.… Continue reading

TikTok: US Congress passes bill that could see app banned

I find the recent news about TikTok facing a potential ban in the US quite intriguing. The fact that the US Congress passed a bill that could lead to the app being banned is a significant development in the ongoing debate surrounding privacy and data security issues.

The shift in attitudes towards TikTok is quite remarkable, from being a platform associated with cringy content to now a hub of engaging and entertaining videos. The app has undoubtedly gained immense popularity, especially among younger audiences who make up a substantial portion of its user base.

However, concerns about data privacy and security have plagued TikTok for quite some time.… Continue reading

‘They’ve Taken Away My Right to Speak,’ Trump Says While Ranting to Crowd

“They’ve Taken Away My Right to Speak,” Trump Says While Ranting to Crowd

In the midst of legal battles and facing the consequences of his actions, former President Donald Trump continues to lament about his alleged loss of the right to speak. It is truly baffling how someone who claims to be silenced can always be heard, continuously spewing out nonsensical rants to his followers. Despite the legal restrictions and boundaries in place, it seems that Trump cannot resist the urge to speak, even if it means disregarding the rules of the court.

As individuals collectively shake their heads in disbelief at the audacity of Trump’s relentless complaints, it becomes evident that he thrives on the attention he receives, regardless of the circumstances.… Continue reading

USC cancels all commencement speakers after canceled valedictorian speech

As a recent graduate myself, I can’t help but be disappointed by the recent news surrounding USC’s commencement ceremony. The decision to cancel all commencement speakers after the valedictorian’s speech was canceled is one of the most perplexing acts of damage control I have ever witnessed. It seems like a knee-jerk reaction that only serves to exacerbate the controversy.

The fact that USC took such drastic measures without citing any actual threats or security concerns is concerning. It raises questions about their commitment to free speech and academic freedom. The original valedictorian speech was reportedly canceled because the university didn’t want her to address certain issues, which is troubling in a place of higher learning that should foster open dialogue and diverse perspectives.… Continue reading

Rep. Ilhan Omar’s daughter among students suspended by Barnard College for refusing to leave pro-Gaza encampment

It’s intriguing how much attention and controversy can be stirred up when a public figure’s family member is involved in a contentious situation. Rep. Ilhan Omar’s daughter, Isra Hirsi, found herself at the center of a storm when she was among the students suspended by Barnard College for refusing to leave a pro-Gaza encampment. The situation brought up a myriad of opinions and perspectives, showcasing the complexity and divisiveness of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The initial lack of context and information in the article left many scratching their heads, wondering about the specifics of the situation. It was later revealed that the students were suspended not for their support of Palestine, but for setting up a long-term encampment that violated the school and city’s rules.… Continue reading

USC bans pro-Palestinian valedictorian from speaking at May commencement, citing safety concerns

As I reflect on the recent news about USC banning the pro-Palestinian valedictorian from speaking at the May commencement due to safety concerns, I can’t help but feel conflicted. On one hand, I understand the university’s need to prioritize safety for all attendees, especially in today’s volatile climate where tensions run high on issues like the Israel-Palestine conflict. However, on the other hand, I can’t help but think about the implications of silencing a voice, even if it holds controversial or extreme views.

The valedictorian in question was chosen based on her academic achievements, which is an impressive feat in itself.… Continue reading

Florida book ban dialed back now that Bible is targeted using the bill to ban it in schools. DeSantis humiliated.

As I reflect on the recent events surrounding Florida’s book ban, I can’t help but shake my head at the sheer irony and hypocrisy that has unfolded. The bill, initially designed to target and censor books deemed inappropriate by a select few, has now backfired spectacularly as the Bible has been caught in the crosshairs. The very book that many hold as sacred and untouchable has found itself on the chopping block, revealing the flawed and misguided intentions behind such legislation.

It’s both amusing and frustrating to witness Governor DeSantis squirm as the unintended consequences of his actions come to light.… Continue reading

Rittenhouse speaks at Western Kentucky University as hundreds protest outside

I can’t wrap my head around why anyone would want to listen to Kyle Rittenhouse speak at a university. What could this murderer possibly have to offer in terms of value or insight? It baffles me that colleges and universities are giving a platform to someone who took the lives of two individuals. It’s a disturbing example of the direction our country is heading in when we glorify individuals like Rittenhouse.

The fact that Rittenhouse was able to speak at Western Kentucky University is shocking to me. How can someone with such a lack of education and moral compass be allowed to address an audience of students seeking knowledge and growth?… Continue reading