Posted on 02/21/2002 2:18:42 AM PST by PogySailor
TAMPA - Facing off and shouting over each other, two groups of students dueled Wednesday over the issue that has divided the University of South Florida: the expected firing of a tenured professor. The bustling lunch-hour protests by 60 students near Cooper Hall marked the first student activism scene many observers could remember in years.
At issue is President Judy Genshaft's stated intent to fire Sami Al-Arian on grounds he violated his contract through off-campus behavior. His defenders say he is being punished for how others have responded to his suspected support for terrorism.
``We won't feel it's safe on campus if he returns,'' said Matthew Silverman, a USF senior. ``Freedom of speech should not be given to terrorists.''
Opponents, led by the Muslim Student Association, countered: ``Don't be an oppressor. Reinstate the professor!'' Said association President Bisher Tarabishy: ``I see students more active, fighting for a cause. That's healthy for USF, because the best ideas will win.''
In related developments:
* U.S. Sen. Bob Graham, D-Miami Lakes, told The Tampa Tribune that Genshaft has handled the matter ``appropriately'' so far, but he supports her only if she fires Al-Arian based on actions, not speech.
Graham, chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, said his recent FBI briefing about Al- Arian did not provide ``much help'' for Genshaft in making that distinction.
* The American Association of University Professors, concerned about academic freedom, will send a review team to USF March 15, 16 and 21. Genshaft's final decision on Al-Arian is not expected before then.
Could you give a more cryptic answer Senator?
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