This statement was voted and approved (on 16-Jun-2025) by the

East Pasco Democratic Club (EPDC)
In Defense of Free Speech and Academic Freedom

 

The East Pasco Democratic Club (EPDC) affirms our unequivocal support for freedom of speech and academic freedom on university campuses.

 

We recognize and uphold the constitutionally protected First Amendment rights of students, faculty, and all members of academic communities to express their opinions—including support for Palestinian political and human rights—and to speak out on issues of public concern.

 

We affirm the right to peaceful protest, to express dissent, and to advocate for justice without fear of surveillance, retaliation, or punitive action.

 

The increasingly repressive rhetoric and actions emerging from the Trump administration reflect a dangerous shift toward political suppression—particularly targeting universities and student activism. These efforts to silence, intimidate, or criminalize peaceful advocacy must be publicly and unequivocally rejected.

 

We further condemn the reported detentions of U.S. citizens, legal residents, and international students for their nonviolent support of Palestinian human rights. Such detentions are antithetical to the values of a free society and must not be tolerated in a democracy. We call for the immediate release of all individuals detained for peaceful expression, and for the full application of due process under the law.

 

As Democrats, we reaffirm our commitment to liberty, justice, and the constitutional rights of all people—on every campus, in every community, and across this nation. In these times, we must lead with clarity, courage, and principle.

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