University Administration Statement on Ray Luc Levasseur Talk

Nov. 10, 2009

Contact:

Patrick Callahan 413/545-0444

AMHERST, Mass. - The university administration does not in any way support the presentation by Ray Luc Levasseur and was very clear in supporting the library’s recent decision to cancel its talk. The university administration did not invite this speaker and would not invite him. A group of faculty members has decided to invite him. Although the university administration questions the wisdom and common sense of this judgment, the institution must respect academic freedom.

As repugnant as we find this invitation, the administration’s commitment to academic freedom must be honored. While the university administration does not approve, endorse or support the decision to invite this individual to campus, academic freedom must be paramount for the university community.

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