Upcoming Richard Spencer speaking event provokes fear for some UF students

UF plans to have classes open day of event

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – The upcoming white nationalist speaking event scheduled for Oct. 19 is raising safety concerns. Protests and counter protests are anticipated to take place during the event. 

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The University of Florida plans to be open for classes and regular operations on Oct. 19. However, faculty members have been informed to be understanding for students who are targets of hate because of race, religion, culture and other beliefs.

People have taken to social media to plan protests and opposition against Richard Spencer.

One Facebook event has more than 2,500 people attending the Richard Spencer protest.

The University of Florida originally denied Richard Spencer’s request on Sep. 12 due to the potential violence and risk on campus and the community, since the following white nationalist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia.

However, UF has to allow Spencer’s right to free speech because it violates the First Amendment. UF and other agencies will pay more than $500,000 for additional security measures.

The event is scheduled from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the Philips Center of Performing Arts.


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