Freedom of expression is suddenly very important. No “free speech zones” required here.

Bradford Thomas of Truth Revolt reports.

University Defends Professor’s ‘I Hate Republicans’ Column

The University of Michigan defended a column written by Communications Department Chair Susan Douglas detailing her “hate” for Republicans, saying it was protected under the university’s “faculty freedom of expression” core value, but noted that it was working “vigilantly” to ensure Michigan students can express differing views “without fear of reprisal.”

On Thursday, Michigan university spokesman Rick Fitzgerald responded to Douglas’ article, saying that the anti-Republican views expressed in the hostile piece “are those of the individual faculty member and not those of the University of Michigan,” but that it was absolutely protected under the university’s freedom of expression guidelines:

The views expressed are those of the individual faculty member and not those of the University of Michigan.

Faculty freedom of expression, including in the public sphere, is one of the core values of our institution.

At the same time, the university must and will work vigilantly to ensure students can express diverse ideas and perspectives in a respectful environment and without fear of reprisal.

The university values viewpoint diversity and encourages a wide range of opinions.