Texas For All 501(c)(4) , the advocacy arm of the largest progressive coalition based in Texas, and Signing Partners issued a statement condemning the handling of the peaceful protest at the University of Texas at Austin by University Officials.

Full statement from Texas For All is as follows:

“Texas For All condemns the University of Texas at Austin’s decision to escalate a peaceful protest with militarized law enforcement presence, arresting dozens of students, members of the press, and allies. We are deeply disappointed to see a public institution hold little value for the rights and safety of Texas students. Texans are worth more.

We support UT Austin students’ right to exercise their First Amendment right to assemble. The use of police violence against any peaceful protester, regardless of their race, age, gender, zip code, or background, is deeply concerning and unacceptable. 

All Texans, regardless of their beliefs or appearance, have the right to peacefully assemble and freely express their political opinions without threats of arrest and violence. The restricting of the freedom to act and speak publicly is intentionally shrinking our civic engagement spaces. As advocates for justice and equity, Texas For All condemns any actions that suppress the voices of our Texan neighbors. 

We call on University President Jay Hartzell, university officials, and law enforcement to respect the rights of protesters and instill trust without the use of excessive force.

We will continue to advocate for every Texan’s fundamental free speech rights which underpin our democracy.”

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