The University of Illinois’ decision to rescind Professor Steven Salaita’s offer of employment is not, as some are characterizing it, censorship. He is not being prevented from speaking out about his views. Salaita has ample venues and opportunities to express his opinions.
Neither is this an example of academic freedom being suppressed. U. of I. did not rescind Salaita’s offer because his views are unpopular or controversial.
The university rescinded his offer because some of his tweets represent hate speech. Hate speech is never protected. His tweet that all West Bank settlers should meet the same fate as the three Israeli teenagers who were abducted and killed is heinous.
An institution that serves so many young people cannot employ someone who condones or advocates violence.
— Janice Cody, Chicago
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