The University of Michigan Board of Regents held a rare public meeting last night where University president Dr. Mark Schlissel announced they would begin talks to allow white supremacist Richard Spencerto speak on campus.
Saying he personally detested and rejects the white supremacy and white nationalism expressed by Richard Spencer, U-M president Dr. Mark Schlissel said at the same time the university is legally prohibited from blocking his request to speak on campus solely on the content of that speech.
Schlissel said he consulted widely with many members of the community before making the difficult decision to begin discussions with Richard Spencer's group to determine if he will be allowed to rent space and speak on campus.
The University president said if they cannot assure a reasonably safe setting for the event, they will not allow it to go forward.
Many students packed the room when the announcement was made, some holding signs or protest and most expressing their displeasure with the decision.
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— Lisa Barry is the host of All Things Considered on WEMU. You can contact Lisa at 734.487.3363, on Twitter @LisaWEMU, or email her at lbarryma@emich.edu
