FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Nashville, Tenn., March 26, 2024 — The Future of Free Speech, a nonpartisan think tank located at Vanderbilt University, has responded to the arrest of a Nashville Scene reporter covering protests today on Vanderbilt’s campus. Jacob Mchangama, the organization’s Executive Director, issued the following statement:
“We do not condone the use of violence or trespassing as a protected form of protest and would encourage students to demonstrate peacefully in accordance with Vanderbilt’s policy. However, arresting an independent local reporter covering the protest, regardless of his alleged attempts to enter a building without authorization, was a disproportionate response that failed to live up to Vanderbilt’s commitment to free expression and First Amendment ideals.”
About The Future of Free Speech
The Future of Free Speech is an independent, nonpartisan think tank located at Vanderbilt University that works to restore a resilient global culture of free speech in the digital age through knowledge, research, and advocacy. Visit us at www.futurefreespeech.org and follow us on Facebook, X, and LinkedIn.
CONTACT:
Justin Hayes
Director of Communications
justin@futurefreespeech.com