A week of controversy has been sweeping SIU’s campus as someone exposes a white, male student of being a Nazi and recruiting others with flyers.
The flyers have been removed from campus, but flyers have gone viral on social media and seen by students, faculty and the SIU administration.
Almost a week after the incident, the SIU campus has responded.
The Chancellor Carlo Montemagno responded in his blog saying the views of white supremacists or any group promoting hate doesn’t align with the mission and values of the university.
Although SIU stands against these messages, Montemagno says in spite of disagreement, students have the right to free speech.
“All students share the right of free speech, even speech with which we strongly disagree. The right to free speech includes the right to hold and express views that most of us would.”
Additional to exposing the student on the flyer, it also demands for a revoke of his financial aid.
Montemagno says scholarships and financial aid are awarded based on a student’s academic achievements not political views. Following the demands of the flyer would lead to perceptions of bias and illegal discrimination.
“As a public institution, we cannot and do not ask about political or social views when admitting students or awarding any type of financial aid,” Montemago said.
Other SIU faculty have responded including the dean of mass communications and media arts.
“We in the College of Mass Communication and Media Arts reject any form of white supremacist ideology. It is our duty as part of a public University to stand vigorously against its spread.”
The dean encourages students that experience harassment to let a staff or faculty member know.
Resources for Concerned SIU students:
Students who are concerned about these issues and fliers should reach out to the Office of the Dean of Students, Saluki Cares or Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) for assistance.
*Provided by Chancellors Blog