Columbia, South Carolina – A Community Unites Against Hate
In a heartwarming display of solidarity, multicultural student groups at the University of South Carolina have come together to oppose a controversial event set to feature two far-right personalities known for their history of hateful rhetoric. The University of South Carolina Columbia Chapter of the NAACP took to Instagram to express their stance, stating, “We stand united against any and all forms of racism and injustice.” This statement reverberated throughout the campus, fueling further support from over 20 different student organizations.
The event, a so-called “roast” of Vice President Kamala Harris, is hosted by a student organization called Uncensored America. They present themselves as a nonpartisan, nonprofit group fighting for freedom of speech. However, controversy surrounds their choice of hosts, Gavin McInnes and Milo Yiannopoulos, who carry significant baggage. McInnes, not just a writer and talk show host but also a founder of the Proud Boys—a group the Southern Poverty Law Center has labeled a hate group—was deeply involved in the organization’s activities even after stepping back in 2018. Meanwhile, Yiannopoulos, notorious for his misogynistic, racist, and xenophobic views, adds another layer of concern among students and community members.
The Response from USC’s Diverse Student Body
As the news of the event spread, the collective voice of various student groups grew louder. Their collective statement labeled the event “hurtful” and accused the university of allowing a platform for the spread of hate. Groups like the Pan-African Student Association, Every Black Girl Club Inc., and the Minority Association of Pre-Health joined the NAACP in voicing their discontent. They referred to the Carolinian Creed, a statement of university values designed to uphold respect and discourage bigotry, highlighting a disconnect between the event and USC’s stated values.
The group expressed hope that the university would take meaningful action to ensure that the campus environment reflects the principles outlined in the Carolinian Creed. By fostering a supportive and inclusive community, they aimed to create a stronger sense of belonging for all students, regardless of their backgrounds.
The University’s Position
While the NAACP formally requested that university officials intervene, the administration has defended its stance. A spokesperson declined to comment on the situation directly, and officials noted that the university, as a public institution, is obligated to allow the event to proceed in alignment with students’ freedom of speech. This position has raised eyebrows and ignited further debate about the boundaries of free speech in educational environments.
A petition circulating through the community, initiated by a USC alumna named Courtney McClain, has gained significant traction, boasting nearly 25,000 signatures as students and faculty rallied together in protest. Criticism also came from local alumni, community leaders, and even politicians, who contended that the university should reconsider hosting individuals that promote violence and hatred.
Voices from USC and Beyond
Prominent voices, including state leaders like Rep. Leon Howard and Rep. Ivory Thigpen, expressed outrage over the event, advocating for a cancellation to protect students from exposure to damaging rhetoric. “While we fully support the First Amendment, this event poses serious risks by exposing students to hate speech,” Thigpen noted, highlighting that the community cannot stay silent amidst the rise of hateful dialogues.
Even USC alumni voiced their disappointment, with some stating that the approval of the event undermines everything good about the university. Unfortunately, those raising these concerns have reportedly faced online harassment from the event’s proponents, showcasing how divisively charged the situation has become.
The Broader Implications
The irony in the situation lies in the potential impact on students’ sense of safety and community. As a collective, students are eager for the university to move forward in alignment with the values of inclusion and respect that it publicly espouses. Tensions continue to rise as the community awaits a response to the growing calls for action against hate.
The event is scheduled for September 18, and while USC leaders condemned “the vile and juvenile rhetoric” of the hosts, they remain firm in safeguarding the principles of free expression despite the backlash they are facing.
As this story unfolds, one thing is clear: the University of South Carolina community is committed to standing against hate and fostering an environment where every voice is valued while prioritizing the safety and dignity of all its members.
