Committee to determine speakers during UW-L Free Speech Week

A new committee has been formed in order to coordinate speakers for Free Speech Week next school year on the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse campus.

The controversy follows last year’s appearance by former porn star turned sex educator Nina Hartley that is leading to some changes. Hartley spoke to about 70 students back in November of 2018 for about 90 minutes.

“Last year we celebrated Free Speech Week and I took the lead on that,” UW-L Chancellor Joe Gow said. “After that, people asked if we could have the process more inclusive of staff, and I said absolutely.”

Gow has asked for representatives from the faculty senate, student senate, academic staff counsel and university staff counsel, as well as from office.

As far as being fair about giving equal time to both sides of an issue, that might be fixed, as well.

“I have heard people say, ‘Couldn’t we have a panel during free speech week to hear more perspectives?’” Gow said. “I think that would be very helpful.”

Gow was reprimanded by UW System President Ray Cross and was not approved for a raise.