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Richard B. Spencer, a leader of the white nationalist group the National Policy Institute, is headed to Texas A&M University to start what he promises will be a series of speaking events on campuses. Many at Texas A&M are unhappy about the visit, and some are planning protests.
On Tuesday, the university's president, Michael K. Young, announced plans for an event that will compete with Spencer's Dec. 6 appearance. In a statement, Young didn't name Spencer but said that his views "are abhorrent and profoundly antithetical to everything I believe." Young also reiterated that, as a public university, Texas A&M could not turn Spencer away. "Freedom of speech is a First Amendment right and a core value of this university, no matter how odious the views may be," he said.
While Young applauded those planning to protest, he said he would be attending an event now planned for the football stadium the night Spencer is in town. The event, to be called Aggies United, will feature speakers and entertainment. Young closed his statement by saying, "Take heart in our university. Along with all of you, our commitment to core values is unwavering and we are strong!"
