LETTER TO THE EDITOR: The wrong way to defend free speech on campus
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Submitted by Micah Safsten, in response to a recent news story
One of the most fascinating periods of American history to me is the “Progressive Era,” largely understood to be the time immediately before, during, and after America’s involvement in World War I. During this time, socialist sympathizers, influenced by the recent Russian revolution, were feared to be infiltrating American culture and society for the purpose of inciting their own revolution. To enflame these fears, socialists would often spread highly incendiary messages anonymously, in fear of being exposed, or even arrested under sedition laws of the day.
These laws limiting the speech of socialist sympathizers were unconstitutional and eventually overturned, but the socialists did themselves few favors by intentionally stoking American fears against them and discouraging open discourse.
I was reminded of this historical anecdote when I saw the anonymously written conservative- sounding clichés, authored in sidewalk chalk throughout campus. I was then dismayed when I read that this was the work of our local Young Americans for Freedom (YAF) chapter.
Of course, I would not accuse YAF of acting like socialists (the highest insult one could levy against them). However they are, like the socialists revolutionaries of the 1920s, doing themselves, and campus free speech, no favors by intentionally making anonymous statements meant to provoke. To be clear: there was no ideological or educational value in the statements they wrote in chalk around campus. No minds were changed, no deep principles reinforced, but hey, some libs were definitely triggered!
My problem with YAF’s actions is not a problem of ideology, but of practicality. They had every right to say what they did, I just believe it will accomplish exactly the opposite of what they say it will. Free speech is not brought about by making provocative statements, then scurrying under the First Amendment for protection when you get a reaction. Free Speech is encouraged through open discussion between competing ideas and seeing the best in those competing ideas.
If Young Americans for Freedom really wants to promote free speech, it should adopt the common practice of it’s founder, William F. Buckley Jr.- who often discussed specific policy position against ideological opponents respectfully in front of an audience. Indeed, it was Buckley’s ability to directly confront his opponent’s best arguments that granted him such influence and legacy.
I would challenge Young Americans for Freedom and other ideologically driven groups on campus to honestly attempt in changing minds and engaging with their opponent’s best arguments. This, not the exchange of pithy clichés, will serve as the precursor to free speech on campus.