A group of University of Chicago alumni is in the process of forming a “Free speech alliance”, and you can sign up for emails even if you’re not an alum. There will eventually be a formal group of alumni that will discuss free-speech matters at the U of C and, importantly, interact with the University itself on matters of policy. You can sign up by clicking on the website below, and as a group coalesces, you’ll be informed.
I had signed on a few months ago when the University kicked off its free speech program with a big campus-wide and zoom-cast event. The panel discussions were very good BUT the question to me is whether the policies that allow for free speech will be enforced. Words flow easily from the President, but the sense I get from Jerry’s reporting on real campus disruptions, these words come up empty as various organized groups continue to disrupt and intimidate with no real penalty in sight. I hope that the words become more than simply midnight dorm discussions.
Is the room in the photo at UChicago? What is it? A reading room? I see a couple of people at the tables working. It is lovely.
Yes, it’s a reading room in Harper Memorial Library. https://college.uchicago.edu/academics/arley-d-cathey-learning-center
Harper was at one time the University’s main library, but has taken on other special functions since the comstruction in the 1960s of the Joseph Regenstein Library as the University’s main research library.
I’m glad U Chicago is taking up the mantle Yale and Harvard have surrendered to the kids.