Columbia University decries Dr M’s ‘anti-Semitism’, but says PM must be given room to speak
ZURAIRI AR
Malay Times
Wed Sep 25 2019
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 25 — Columbia University has explained today that it does not endorse the views of speakers invited to speak at its World Leaders Forum, ahead of Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad’s address there.
In a statement, its president Lee C. Bollinger said invited speakers sometimes express opinions antithetical to its values, and the invitation is neither a validation nor an endorsement of the views of the speakers.
“You are right that I find the anti-Semitic statements of Prime Minister Mahathir to be abhorrent, contrary to what we stand for, and deserving of condemnation,” Bollinger said.
“Nevertheless, it is in these instances that we are most strongly resolved to insist that our campus remain an open forum and to protect the freedoms essential to our university community.”...
