Horowitz to address ad controversy, free speech
May 1, 2001
After spurring nationwide controversy and enduring allegations of racism, conservative firebrand David Horowitz will speak at the UW campus tonight concerning his ad about slave reparations and the issue of free speech.
Horowitz's recent effort to run a full-page ad entitled, "Why Reparations for Slavery are a Bad Idea -- and Racist Too," in more than 50 college newspapers nationwide, has been the catalyst of much debate.
Many campus newspapers, including The Daily, refused to print the ad for various reasons. Other newspapers that ran the ad were often met with student protest.
The speaking engagement will take place in Kane 120 at 6. It is sponsored by the UW College Republicans.
According to Chris Murray, public-relations officer for the College Republicans, the event was organized as a way to stress the importance of free speech.
"Freedom of expression is a very important thing on campus and everywhere," Murray said.
The College Republicans believe The Daily's refusal to run the ad was a failure to present all sides of the reparations issue. The group, by organizing the speaking engagement, is allowing Horowitz to present his side of the argument.
"Many people have heard of Horowitz from outside sources, but very few people have actually seen [the ad] or heard directly from him," Murray said. "This is a chance for UW students to hear all sides of the argument."
The public speaking is part of Horowitz's "Freedom Tour," which visits nine U.S. college campuses. On April 18, Horowitz spoke on the Arizona State University campus, where he defended himself against claims that he was racist. Since then, Horowitz has vowed to only speak on college campuses with armed guards present.
Security is an important issue surrounding Horowitz's speaking on campus; however, the details concerning security are not yet final.
"Some people are concerned about Horowitz being here," said Steven Robinson, the patrol captain for the UW Police Department. "The amount of security on duty at the event is still under planning."
Tickets for the event are free and available through the College Republicans by request. According to Murray, the amount of interest in Horowitz's speaking prompted the College Republicans to ticket the event.
"If we had anticipated the amount of interest, we would have booked a bigger hall," said Murray.
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