Roz Ward, Safe Schools and the suppression of dissidents
Posted by John, June 6th, 2016 - under La Trobe, Roz Ward, Safe Schools, Universities.
Tags: Free speech
In Independent Australia today, I discuss the suppression of free speech behind the recent suspension of academic Roz Ward. I say among other things:
‘Ward has clearly adversely affected the university but only if your criteria for judgement is a reactionary newspaper like The Australian. The Vice-Chancellor’s actions are entirely consistent with a profit model for higher education and entirely inconsistent with respect for free speech and critical enquiry.
‘Something wonderful happened in response to Dewar’s decision to suspend Ward. A mass campaign in her defence erupted, led by her union, the National Tertiary Education Union, university staff and students across Australia, the gay and lesbian community and free speech advocates. Faced with this massive backlash, and perhaps realising that his own actions had in fact adversely affected La Trobe University, the Vice-Chancellor lifted Ward’s suspension, to avoid “a high profile and protracted legal dispute … “.’
To read the whole article click here. Safe Schools, Roz Ward and the suppression of dissidents