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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Public Education is under assault.
We need to be strong advocates for our public schools, students, and their families.
Join the Democratic Pubic Education Caucus July 26th in Lakeland for our Summer Conference. Hear from a panel on the state of public education, learn how to use social media to advocate, learn from those who have run a successful campaign for office and from our Campaign Committee plus network with fellow public school advocates. Register to attend The Power of Us: Activism in Action.
Go to www.dpecf.org or scan the QR code below.
OUR MONTHLY MEETINGS
The East Pasco Democratic Club meets at 6:30 PM on the third Monday of each month at the Genesis Center in Zephyrhills (38112 15th Ave Zephyrhills, FL 33542). All friends of the Democratic Party are invited. For more information, please call (813) 383-8315.
