Muslim advocacy group sues Abbott, saying university executive order violates free speech
Abbott’s executive order directs Texas universities to “review and update free speech policies to address the sharp rise in antisemitic speech.” Full Story
Demonstrations supporting Palestinians turned chaotic at the University of Texas at Austin in spring 2024 as protesters and students clashed with school officials and law enforcement. More than 100 people were arrested. Leaders accused demonstrators of trying to disrupt campus, while protesters criticized law enforcement’s use of force.
Abbott’s executive order directs Texas universities to “review and update free speech policies to address the sharp rise in antisemitic speech.” Full Story
The lecturer’s lawyer disputes the charges, and the university’s decision to fire him has raised concerns from faculty over free speech protections. Full Story
Protesting students and staff want to draw attention to public university investments in companies supporting Israel, even if divestment is unlikely in Texas. Full Story
Many students participating in pro-Palestinian demonstrations fear their involvement might affect their plans for after college. Full Story
School officials have suggested there was planned violence at the protests, but one local prosecutor has raised doubts. Full Story
Hartzell’s protest response has also resulted in condemnations from students and faculty. Full Story
Authorities and protesters clashed during the latest pro-Palestinian demonstration at the university on Monday. Full Story
The arrest of dozens of Pro-Palestinian demonstrators since last week has left First Amendment advocates asking who gets to enjoy speech protections in Texas. Full Story
The arrests mark the second time in less than a week that police have broken up a pro-Palestinian demonstration. This time protesters tried to set up an encampment on campus. Full Story
The FOX 7 employee is accused of hitting a trooper with his camera, but the arrested man told reporters he was pushed and didn’t hit any officer. Full Story
Dozens of people were arrested in Austin, while sit ins and demonstrations elsewhere happened mostly unobstructed. School officials say it’s because campus rules were broken. Full Story
University officials banned all students arrested from campus, except for “academic reasons.” Full Story
President Jay Hartzell defended the response but faculty criticized the presence of armed state troopers. Fifty-seven people were arrested. Full Story
Students can generally peacefully protest, regardless of their viewpoint, but colleges and authorities may enforce some restrictions and criminal laws to maintain peace and order. Full Story
Gov. Greg Abbott expressed support for the arrests, which come amid tensions on college campuses across the country over the Israel-Hamas war. Full Story