UC Berkeley's Disgraceful Response to Anti-Vietnam War Protests

In 1990, UC Berkeley held a graduation ceremony for the class of 1970, which had been canceled due to anti-Vietnam War protests. During this event, history professor Leon Litwack highlighted the significance of the class in promoting free speech at the university. However, recent actions by the UC Board of Regents to increase weapon stockpiles on campuses in response to student protests have sparked outrage among alumni. Kathy Masaoka, a graduate from the class of 1970, expressed her dismay at the regents' decision, urging support for students' rights to protest without fear of violence. Another contributor, Andrew Apter, reflected on his experiences growing up during the Free Speech Movement and criticized the current administration's approach to handling protests. He emphasized that stockpiling weapons contradicts the principles of liberal education and civil disobedience, which are essential to an open society. Both writers call for a reevaluation of the university's stance on student protests and the importance of protecting free speech.