Richard Spencer May Speak At University Of Florida
Richard Spencer Image by Getty Images
Richard Spencer, the “alt-right” leader at the center of the weekend’s Charlottesville crisis, may speak on the University of Florida’s campus in September, thanks to rules that allow outside groups to hold events at the public college.
“For many in our community, including myself, this speaker’s presence would be deeply disturbing. What we’ve watched happen in Charlottesville … is deplorable,” wrote university president W. Kent Fuchs in a letter to students.
Kent added: “This organization is unaffiliated with the university, and no student groups or other groups affiliated with the university are sponsoring this speech.” The University of Florida, located in Gainesville, allows outside groups to use space on campus because taxpayer dollars fund the institution.
Spencer, who coined the term “alt-right” and envisions a white “ethnostate,” had initially wanted to hold a “White Lives Matter” rally on the campus of Texas A&M, but that move was nixed by campus administrators there.
He appeared at the Texas school in March, in a divisive and violent appearance that led the university to restrict the right of outside groups to use space on campus.
Contact Daniel J. Solomon at [email protected] or on Twitter @DanielJSolomon
I’m personally matching all gifts to the Forward, up to $36,000. Can I match your gift now?
Hello, fellow Forward reader! I’m Joel Brown, a Forward reader and supporter for more than 15 years, and currently the chair of the board of directors.
I’m an avid Forward reader because it ticks so many of my essential boxes: excellent journalism, Jewish focus and diverse viewpoints. In today’s political climate, what I most appreciate is the Forward’s independence — made possible by the generosity of its membership.
The Forward is committed to bringing you unbiased, nuanced Jewish news. From my position as board chair, I see an exciting future as we expand our position as the definitive independent voice of contemporary American Judaism.
— Joel Brown, Forward board chair
Support our mission to tell the Jewish story fully and fairly.
