COLUMBIA — Controversy Brews Over USC Event Featuring Far-Right Commentators
The atmosphere on the campus of the University of South Carolina is heating up as a planned event that’s stirring up intense debate draws closer. This time, it’s a “roast” of Vice President Kamala Harris that’s scheduled to feature Gavin McInnes, one of the founders of the far-right group, the Proud Boys, along with another far-right commentator, Milo Yiannopoulos.
Organized by the USC chapter of a group called Uncensored America, which claims to champion free speech, the event has become a flashpoint for controversy due to the speakers’ histories and the vulgar nature of its promotions. Many in the campus community, along with student organizations and even the NAACP, have voiced concerns that the event could violate the university’s anti-discrimination policy.
The NAACP has been particularly vocal, emphasizing in a letter to university President Michael Amiridis that this “sexist and racist” event could endanger students and faculty alike. Their letter pointed to the violent history associated with the Proud Boys and previous protests against Yiannopoulos when he appeared on other campuses. “Inviting to USC the founder of a terrorist group… presents a clear and immediate danger,” they asserted.
Student Groups Unite Against the Event
In light of these circumstances, 21 different student organizations on campus have unified in their opposition, calling the planned roast “shameful.” They articulated their disappointment in the university for allowing a platform that they feel promotes hate speech and incites potential violence within their communities.
Meanwhile, the controversy has even reached the White House. During a recent press briefing, Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre was quizzed about the Biden administration’s stance on the event. Although she stated she wasn’t familiar with all the details, she confidently backed Vice President Harris, reinforcing that President Biden stands proud beside her.
A Growing Movement Online and On Campus
A petition circulating online has already accumulated over 25,000 signatures, urging USC to cancel or significantly alter the event’s structure. Despite the uproar, university spokesman Jeff Stensland redirecting to Amiridis’ earlier statements, which denounced hate but defended free speech. “We are committed to our values, including the protection of free speech,” he emphasized.
Local Leadership Responds
Adding to the discussion, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster commented on the matter during an event focused on campus antisemitism. He reiterated the constitutional protections around free speech, suggesting that while the event may be distasteful to some, it falls within the realm of lawful expression.
A Response from Students Planning Counterprogramming
In response to the roasting event, a campus group has put together an exciting alternative. On the same date, September 18, a “bonanza” will take place featuring inflatables, games, and free food at a nearby field close to USC’s Blatt gym. This student-run event aims to create a fun and welcoming environment to give students an option that aligns more with their values.
While the roast of Vice President Harris draws ever closer, it’s clear that tensions and widespread community reactions are likely to shape the atmosphere on campus for weeks to come. Protests are planned, and with more discussions about free speech and its limits happening at USC, students are gearing up for a meaningful and possibly contentious season ahead.
As Columbia residents await these events, it raises a broader conversation about how universities approach free speech while safeguarding their student body from harmful rhetoric and potential violence.
