The University of South Carolina has decided not to cancel an upcoming event billed as a roast of Vice President Harris, despite calls from South Carolina State Senator Tamika Isaac-Devine to do so. The event features Roastmasters Milo Yiannopoulos and Gavick McGinnis, the latter being the founder of the Proud Boys organization.
Yiannopoulos, known for his controversial statements targeting various groups, resigned from Breitbart following remarks that appeared to sympathize with adult sexual relationships involving children. McGinnis and several Proud Boys leaders have faced legal consequences for their involvement in events like the January 6th Capitol riot.
Isaac-Devine expressed concerns about the university's decision, stating that allowing such individuals a platform sends a message condoning offensive and potentially harmful speech. She emphasized the importance of promoting diversity and inclusivity on campus.
The senator suggested that the university could counter the event by hosting activities that encourage voter registration, education, and diversity awareness. She highlighted the need to create an environment that does not tolerate hate speech or actions that marginalize certain communities.
While the university has condemned the language used in the event advertisement, officials, including South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster, have cited First Amendment rights in their decision not to intervene unless there is a genuine threat or danger.
Isaac-Devine called on the university to leverage the situation as an opportunity to engage students in promoting diversity, advocating for hate crime legislation, and ensuring the appointment of judges who uphold justice and equality.
She emphasized the importance of empowering young people to actively participate in democracy and work towards safeguarding democratic values in the country.
