Statement on Failed Attempt to Disrupt Free Speech Conference

New Haven, CT — November 7…Today, Buckley Program President Zach Young ’17 released the following statement:

“Yesterday, the William F. Buckley, Jr. Program hosted its Fifth Annual Conference on “The Future of Free Speech: Threats in Higher Education and Beyond.” Our event featured fourteen distinguished speakers from the fields of journalism, policy, and academia. Despite an initial disruption (see here for video) and later protests, the Buckley Program completed the conference in full, and U.S. Senator Ben Sasse delivered a keynote address that evening. The Buckley Program embraces the ideals outlined in the Woodward Report, which emphasizes that the ‘free interchange of ideas is necessary’ to the fulfillment of a university’s mission. The protesters yesterday underscored the need to vigorously promote a culture of free expression at Yale. Disagreement is not grounds for censorship, disruption, or intimidation. We sincerely appreciate the efforts by the Yale Police Department to protect these ideals.”

Never has there been a greater need for the Buckley Program. Thank you for your continued support.