Columbia, S.C. Braces for a Rally Amid Controversy
Columbia is buzzing with anticipation as State Representative Leon Howard gears up to lead a rally at the South Carolina Statehouse on Wednesday, September 18. The rally is aimed at addressing the uproar surrounding a controversial event set to unfold at the University of South Carolina—dubbed a “roast” of Vice President Kamala Harris. Hosted by Gavin McInnes and Milo Yiannopoulos, both figures are known for their divisive rhetoric, stirring significant backlash from various corners of the community.
Why the Uproar?
McInnes, a commentator who established the far-right group Proud Boys, is no stranger to controversy. His affiliation with a group whose leader is currently serving a 22-year sentence speaks volumes about the sensitivities surrounding this event. Yiannopoulos is known for being a former editor at Breitbart News and a frequently outspoken critic of modern social justice initiatives. The nature of the event, paired with the organizers’ problematic histories, has raised eyebrows among many, leading to a growing consensus that USC should rethink its decision to host.
Representative Howard didn’t hold back when expressing his concerns, stating in a release, “It’s unacceptable that a public institution like USC would provide a platform for hateful ideologies. This event doesn’t reflect the values of inclusion and respect that we should uphold as a society.” Such sentiments undoubtedly resonate with many community members who feel strongly about \b the ethical responsibilities of educational institutions.
Support for the Rally
The rally, organized under the auspices of the non-partisan voter access organization Carolina for All, is set to kick off at 4 p.m. at the North Steps of the South Carolina Statehouse. The support from various organizations and advocates illustrates the community’s resolve against what they perceive to be an affront to shared values. Lawrence Moore, the director of Carolina for All, echoed these thoughts, emphasizing that this event stands in contrast to the hard work being done to ensure a welcoming atmosphere on college campuses.
Context Matters
This rally comes on the heels of a recent summit that convened in Columbia aimed at tackling antisemitism on college campuses. South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson, Governor Henry McMaster, and other notable leaders participated in this summit, discussing the urgent need to create a more inclusive educational environment.
Several voices from within the academic community have also weighed in on the situation. Joshua Cooper, a tenured professor at USC, expressed concerns regarding the implications of hosting such an event. Adding to the tension, the NAACP has reached out to USC President Michael D. Amiridis, urging him to take decisive action against the roast, signaling widespread discontent.
The University’s Position
Despite the fervent protests, USC has maintained that it is bound to uphold the First Amendment rights of its students. In a statement co-signed by President Amiridis and Thad Westbrook, Chair of the Board of Trustees, the university clarified that while they do not endorse the event, they cannot cancel it without clear evidence of a threat. Governor McMaster has also chimed in, reiterating that the university has a responsibility to allow discourse on campus unless an actual danger arises.
Looking Forward
As the community gears up for the rally, tensions continue to simmer—the roast is scheduled to occur later that same day in the Russell House Ballroom on campus. Whether the rally’s impact will lead to significant changes or spur further debate remains to be seen. However, one thing is for sure: Columbia is alive with discussions on how institutions can better reflect shared societal values.
