It took me a bit to submit this because of how much I value the free press and what it does for democracy. Vibrant and wide-ranging journalism is critical for a free society across all levels of government, including our local community. We depend on journalism to uncover uncomfortable truths and shine a light on positive developments.
But when those who disguise themselves as journalists cause actual harm, they are not adding real value to our community — or to journalism. Last April I gave a privately sponsored lecture at the University of Nevada, Reno to analyze the Genocide Convention ’s Article II requirements and the application of such to the South Africa v. Israel case. The purpose of this lecture was to objectively assess the requirements of the convention to the case.
When I arrived on campus, I was met with protesters who covered their faces, carried anti-Semitic signs, and accused me of giving a “pro-Israel” speech. While I am pro-Israel, as I am pro-supporting innocent Palestinians, the speech was not a blanket apology for the State of Israel. It unfortunately became a point that others feared for my safety and the police had to escort some of these agitators out…