We've examined a few cases that involved the Vietnam War in the 1960s and 1970s: New York Times v. United States and United States v. O'Brien. We'll also discuss cases involving free speech and students.
Our campus also involved political protest in those tumultuous times.
Ten students at Southwest Texas State University took part in a protest
against the Vietnam War on campus, but were suspended and expelled from the university.
Check out this brief video by The University Star: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ygdK1awjMA#t=15
Also, listen to this NPR report broadcast from Oct. 23, 2001, in which two of the San Marcos Ten were interviewed: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=1131946
Consider that this interview was conducted less than two months after the terrorist attack on Sept. 11, 2001.
After you watch and listen to this reports, return here and add a
comment with your reaction. Also, consider whether there are any causes
-- political, environmental, social or otherwise -- that would motivate you
to take part in a protest.
Please remember to include your first name, last name initial and class (11 a.m., 2 p.m. or online).
159 comments:
Melanie C., 11a TR
I found both the video by The U Star and the NPR podcast to be incredibly interesting as I was previously unaware of the San Marcos 10. I am surprised that what is now a very liberal university was once so harsh on students for expressing their constitutional right in a peaceful manner. I do feel that if something of this nature were to happen today on campus that administrators would not seek to shut it down if it were truly a peaceful protest. I was very moved by the fact that David Bayless, interviewed in the NPR bit, had only returned from war a few months previous to the protest. Respect for our country's veterans has always been important, but it seems that the administrators from this time couldn't find any such respect for Bayless. Had the San Marcos 10 faced a jury, rather than just a judge, I believe that their suspension would have not been upheld. As far as causes that would motivate me to take part in a protest I would say that political and social issues would be most likely to provoke me to protest. In such a dynamic time as we are in now people are still fighting to maintain their rights as well as gain equal rights, and protests are as popular as ever.
I was very surprised of the severity of the punishment towards the San Marcos 10. Regardless of what administration's belief was it was too harsh to drop their GPA to zero. All they were doing was expressing their point of view and in a peaceful manner. I am very glad that now we are able to express our thoughts in an open manner without having to suffer such harsh punishments, of course as long as it's peaceful. What jumped out at me the most about the NPR recording is the Vietnam veteran, how to him speaking up for what he believed in was far more important than losing his college credits. I think that the San Marcos ten were very courageous.
Maria Valdez
media law class time 2pm t-th
I think that the courts decision on the fate of the San Marcos Ten was an unlawful act by the government. To me it shows that the First Amendment, as with any protection granted by the Constitution, can be trampled under the government's boot should they see fit. It seems to me that the opinions of those in charge played a large role in their decisions about this case. That is to say, they punished students because their voice was in dissent. The task of U.S citizens is to fervently prune the branches of government, which is always destined for tyranny, by raising their voices on matters such as these.
Should there come a time when rulers try to hinder religious freedoms I will protest it. This is an important freedom to me.
Andrew Wallace-Bradley
Media Law
2PM T-TH
Camden S. TH 11AM
I was surprised that i had never heard of the SM10, and didn't know that the free speech area on campus had such a primitive phase in which things like this could happen. At the same time, its not surprising that this would happen considering cases we've discussed like NYT v. US.
Nicole Vaguine, TH @ 2 pm
I have never heard on the San Marcos 10, and listening to the broadcast/watching the video and hearing of the school's reaction to the students was so crazy to me. Now, we have the horse statue where students (and non-students) are encouraged to express themselves, but back in the day, students were expelled and had their GPAs dropped to zeros because they were expressing their beliefs. I think their punishments were totally unjust and unfair, and most of all, unconstitutional. The students were extremely courageous and I hope that I will have the bravery to stand up for what I believe in when the time comes like these students did.
Well, as a videographer and editor, my first reaction is to the University Star video was how poorly it was shot and put together. I guess I should expect this considering that it is the University Star after all. But that is beside the point. Anyway, the topic is interesting but the result from the protest wasn't surprising. Like what Bayless said in the NPR interview, people have a high patriotic feeling and think that if you're not with us, you're against us. That ideology still exist today. So, even if it's wasn't constitutionally legal, of course administrators delivered harsh punishments on the students. It's rare that you see a protest make an actual difference in policy. For me, I'd rather report from a protest than be in one. Also, considering the decision on the San Marcos 10, there's the fact that L.B.J. was a Southwest Texas alumnus and continued to escalate the war. I'm sure the administration of the school or the presidency didn't want that antiwar publicity on their hands. Yes, what happened was illegal but when haven't those in power not done something illegal?
Nathalie C.
11 a.m. class
I found both the video and radio clip very interesting. The first thing that struck me was how the protest started with 100 students and quickly dropped down to 10 with the threat of "disciplinary action". It shows how much fear authoritative figures can instill in students. Then it shocked me how intense the punishment was. Suspended for a year and GPA dropped down to 0 with no credit from the University. I think that if this happened this week, the outcome would not be the same. With all of the media and social media coverage it would get, the school would not be able to just throw these students to the side. The students were practicing their right to peaceful protest. Not once were they violent. I think that this trial would be a much bigger ordeal if it was current.
Taylor S
11 a.m Class
In the University Star video I was shocked to hear of the severe repercussions that the San Marcos 10 received. To be kicked out of the University and have their GPA's dropped to zero for a peaceful protest is completely ridiculous to me. I feel as though the San Marcos 10 gave up everything to stand for what they believe in. In the NPR report broadcast, it's even stated that one of the San Marcos 10, Annie Burleson waited 20 years before she attended college again. I believe it's because of the negative impact that she had from the University not allowing her to protest and be a part of the conversation for what was happening to the young men being drafted to the war. With the NPR broadcast video being recorded 2 months after the 9/11 terrorist attack, I can see how it can dredge up old feelings similar to the Vietnam war era. Protesting for a social issue would probably be the avenue I would take as I have been keeping up with the Black Lives Matter movement and trying to stay very up to date on our social issues that we currently are suffering from.
Kelly C.
Tuesday/Thursday 2pm-3:20pm
I believe what the University did to the students was unfair and unconstitutional. What the students were doing was expressing their thoughts without harming anyone, or causing any trouble. These students were using their constitutional right of freedom of speech.
Same thing with Bill Cunningham. I believe it is unfair that he got fired after writing about this event. He was also using his constitutional right of freedom of speech. These students and Bill Cunningham should have been protected by the First Amendment.
I really liked the video and the audio documenting what happened to these students. I like how we can find articles like these and learn some of the history of what has happened at Texas State University.
Enrique Rodriguez.
2pm T, TH Media Law
Personally, I thought the courts decision to completely wipe the San Marcos Ten students and their gpa's was completely unlawful. Especially, since the students were in their own right of conducting a peaceful and legal protest; essentially practicing their rights of free speech correctly. Hearing that one particular student didn't attend college until 20 years later shows how negative of an impact this decision had on some of these students. It's ridiculous that a small group of individuals had to be treated with such harsh consequences. With the NPR broadcast being recorded 2 months after the attack on September 11th, it makes sense how it could wash up old memories or sentiments that would remind individuals about the Vietnam war era. If I had to protest for any sort of involvement or issue that pertained to me, I would push for a social protesting medium since social media is so widely popular and is bound to be seen somewhere on the Internet whether it's Facebook, Twitter, etc.
Brach F
Tuesday/Thursday 2:00-3:20pm
After learning about some of the landmark Supreme Court decisions that took place in mid-century war time, I'm not all that surprised by the severity of the punishment reserved for the San Marcos 10. What I did find shocking however, was the fact that the students appealed the decision to a higher court and did not have the decision overturned.
Tinker v. Des Moines Independent Community School District was a Supreme Court ruling that defined student's first amendment rights in 1969. This case also involved a silent, non-violent protest of the Vietnam War, and the courts ruled that administrators could only abridge free speech rights if they are "able to show that [their] action was caused by something more than a mere desire to avoid the discomfort and unpleasantness that always accompanies an unpopular viewpoint."
This precedent was set in the same year as the protests involving the San Marcos 10. Since they did not win their appeal, I'm assuming the San Marcos 10 case happened before the Tinker Test had been established.
Seeing that the students were not causing any kind of disruption through their peaceful assembly, I would be interested in hearing what the administrator's justification was for expelling the protesters, and whether that justification would have been able to stand the precedent set by the courts after the Tinker precedent.
The University Star video is definitely a piece of material that has informed me about something I would assume most students do not know about. The San Marcos 10 were individuals i believe were not treat as they should have when i came to their punishment. Completely canceling out their GPA's is something i can not believe was able to have been done.
Bill Cunnigham aade an excellent point as he mentioned that he believe he wore something tasteful and appropriate to inform the university.
The fact that a "Disciplinary action" would be taken into action as Annie Burleson said they were told was more than they could have ever imagined. The students were not causing riots or encouraging individuals to take action but simply stating their point.
Today i see more high schools and Universities allowing their students to speak freely not only with one another but with the staff and I can only hope cases such as TInker v. Des Moines and actions such as the San Marcos 10 can allow students to learn and take risks not only to voice on campus but taking it to the next level such as calling int he media.
Lea D. online
Lauren Eckhardt (TR @ 2:00)
This is the first I have ever heard of the "San Marcos Ten"! I had no idea that the students got arrested for protesting on a PUBLIC campus. That is insane. Although, the court did make a point about the protest possibly leading to an outbreak. I would have been interested to be there and hear what the "San Marcos Ten" had to say. It's really unfortunate that they got expelled. Especially since it took one of them 20 years to get her degree.
I believe this was a political statement. I also believe in times of war the government can make up just about any excuse to have a decision like the one the "san marcos 10" received upheld. The 01' war to me had different circumstances than the vietnam war but the ending result was still the same. Many Americans died in the Vietnam war over an ideology (communism) that ended up to be complete bullshit while in the Iraq/Iran war many middle eastern citizens were killed over an assumption (weapons of mass destruction) which ended up to be complete ____ (I think you can fill in the blank). What happened to the san marcos 10 is messed up but at least no one was shot or killed.
Taylor C. Tuesday/Thursday 11:00 p.m.
The punishments the San Marcos 10 received was shocking in my opinion. The right to peaceably assemble is directly specified in the First Amendment. Since the university is a state funded entity, there should be no reason students should be punished for taking advantage of their rights. In watching the first video in comparison to the punishments the San Marcos 10 received, I am pleased to see that the university has come a long way in regards to the First Amendment. While I do not agree with the war effort for Vietnam, protesting is something that I would be uncomfortable doing and I would rather find another way to defy the American ideals for the Vietnam War.
We've been learning about a lot of different aspects obtaining to free speech so I was pretty interested to see this blog post and learning that Texas State has had a history of violating free speech with the "San Marcos 10". I think the courts ruling was unjustifiable to expel the students and drop their GPA to 0. If the students were unlawfully protesting their freedom of speech and being violent, lashing out to people, etc, then I'd say some sort of punishment would've been needed, but the fact that they weren't doing anything of the sort and were practicing their freedom of speech correctly and still got handed a harsh punishment is ridiculous. The students lives were more than likely affected in the long term by hearing one of the students didn't return to college until 20 years later. The same goes for Bill Cunningham being fired for speaking what he believed in. The fact that somebody can be harmed by violating those rights is wrong and unlawful.
It's nice to see we have come along way from those times with the right of free speech. More and more I see protests around Austin and San Marcos with people peacefully protesting their rights without any negative conflict arising from it.
Cody W., 2 p.m. course
This is a pretty interesting case. Southwest Texas State (the university LBJ attended) expelled ten students for peacefully protesting the Vietnam war--the war in which LBJ was president. I have a strong feeling they were so superflously punished because LBJ attended the university. I highly doubt that type of punishment would have happened at any other university not attended by the incumbent president.
"It was a lot of energy in the 60s, America love it or leave it. People don't like hearing anything different." -David Bayless
That comment can be related to the current situation going on in America right now, kneeling during the National Anthem. Basically, if you protest about the current state of affairs in America, you're told to leave the country or go elsewhere.
I think its unfair how these students were treated. Its interesting to note how many students dropped from the protest due to the disciplinary action threat coming from the school. Freedom of expression for these students were not upheld and they were not even harming anyone or causing trouble. This is the first time I've heard of the San Marcos 10 and its crazy to think that this happened on a public campus. If you are not causing any physical harm or verbal harm to an individual and you're just expressing your thoughts, there is no need for this kind of reaction by authorities.
Sarah Pearce T/TH 11:00-12:20
I think that the decision in expelling the 10 students and dropping their hard earned credit hours and GPA down to a zero was an unfair decision made by the dean. This is a prime example on how the first amendment of the constitution is loosely enacted. Students back in the 60's, from what the video/audio showed, aren't encouraged to have their own thoughts and insight like we are encouraged to have as students in today's time. I myself would take part in a protest if I felt that strongly about an issue. It is important to use the knowledge we've gained from college to form our own opinions onto this world, otherwise besides earning a degree, what is there to show for the way college has shaped us?
Paige S.
2 p.m.
Lillian B 11 a.m. class
I was surprised and disappointed to hear about Texas State's infringement on these protesters' constitutional rights. Their punishment for the protesters seemed extreme, especially because they didn't tell them what would happen if they continued with their protest. Although they warned that consequences would apply, the students had no way of knowing that they would be suspended for a year and lose all of their previous credits. I wish I could say that there was a cause that would make me get out and protest for, but if I haven't gotten out there to protest for a cause yet, there probably isn't much I would get out there and attend a protest for at all. Of course I have opinions on hot topics like everyone else, but it may be that I don't feel that standing out in a protest will make much of a difference for something that's usually already been decided by lawmakers. In order for me be inspired to attend a protest it would have to be related to a topic that hits very close to home.
After listening and watching both reports, I am very surprised by what happened to the San Marcos 10. I had actually never heard of them, and I think it would be smart for the University to make an attempt to educate their students on this group. Obviously the issue of free speech had drastically changed over the years, but being expelled from a University just for peacefully protesting seems incredibly harsh. I could not imagine anything like this happening today. As of right now, I cannot think of anything that would motivate me to take part in a protest, especially to the point of risking jail time or expulsion. However, if down the road there is something that I am extremely passionate about, then it could be a whole different story.
Trevor Sartin 2 p.m.
After watching the video produced by The University Star and listening to the NPR broadcast, I am very upset and angry about what happened to the San Marcos 10. I wish I had the authority to get revenge for these people and help them all go back to Texas State and graduate and / or walk the stage. I haven't been in Media Law for very long but knowing just the small amount of information that I do about our rights as Americans, makes me so mad at our government and representatives for not standing up for these students and staying true to the U.S. Constitution. Something like this would have a hard time happening today (or at least I would like to think so.) I don't find what these protesters were doing to be harmful to anyone. Just because a message may offend someone, does not mean it's a punishable act. I think Texas State needs to reach out to these students even though some of them may already be passed away (what a shame) and publicly apologize for wrongly accusing them of illegal acts. We pride ourselves on how diverse we are but according to this story, Texas State doesn't allow for diversity. I'm glad I'm a student at Texas State in 2016 instead of in 1969 because I feel free to say and do whatever I want on my campus but I don't think I would have felt that way back then.This is a true sign of how we learn from our mistakes and learn from history.
Katy F T - Thu 11:00 AM
I never knew about this protest. It's very surprising that a silent, nonviolent protest had such permanent consequences when in present time, protests on campus is a daily event. The fact that today you could protest all day about controversial topics peacefully, nobody could stop you in that free speech area. A suspension from a university based on a "disruption" to the rest of the students. Such a permanent punishment for something that was peacefully protested and should be protected by the First Amendment. It was such a different time back then.
Samuel R. 2 PM
I think that the reaction to their protests was extremely harsh. They were completely denied their rights just because the administrators at SWT didn't agree with their views. Just because they didn't agree, does not give them the right to take those actions and completely ruin those students college career. Personally, I have never been one that would partake in protesting. Lots of protests end up with bad results, such as violence and I do not wish to end up in a situation like that. I would be more likely to contact state representatives and take other actions that would be less likely to end up in violence or consequences.
Alexandra T.
2 p.m. T/Th
It was hard for me to believe that the university went all the way to suspending the individuals and reducing their GPA and college credits to zero. All for expressing their opinion on the war. I wasn't aware of the San Marcos 10 until I watched the video and I am still finding it hard to believe that it took place on our campus. The protest was non-violent, silent and under control, and yet they were threatened and punished for it. To hear on the NPR interview from David Bayless that the university had to put a stop the the protest because of "what may occur" because of it made me think of what we've been discussing in class. Very thankful for the First Amendment and what it means to our professions today. Best of all, both David Bayless and Annie Burleson went back to school and were able to earn their degree.
Jairo Devora, T/TR, 11:00 a.m.
Kathryn M. 11 a.m.
I had not previously heard of the San Marcos 10 and am surprised of the way such an event was handled on our campus. I've known the stallion statue was the center point for students to express their ideas freely on campus, but I am shocked to hear that in 1969, those same privileges were not shown to students. The fact that they were suspended and given failing gpa's is shocking enough, for just participating in a non violent protest, but the fact that those punishments were upheld is even more shocking. It completely violates first amendment rights. I may be motivated to take part in a protest if such an event were to occur again, but as of this moment there is not a particular cause I fully support except for equality among all human beings.
I found both the University Star and NPR reports to be extremely interesting this is my first time to hear about the San Marcos 10. It's definitely crazy to see how the times have changed. I don't partake in the protesting on campus, but I commend those that exercise their constitutional right. I don't understand how these students that were not provoking or inciting violence could be stripped of their college credit. I can't say there is an issue right now that I am passionate enough about to go out & protest. However, if I do happen to become passionate about an issue and the opportunity to protest arises, then I will exercise my right to do so.
Alexis D., Online
This is only the second or third time I've heard of the San Marcos Ten, which is pretty telling considering I'm a senior right now.
Their case was handled incredibly unfairly. I honestly cannot believe the courts upheld the school's ruling and allowed the students to stay expelled, especially given that they were protesting silently. I know that, at the time, it was fairly unpopular to protest the Vietnam war, and that other protests drew violence from police and such, but to have something like this happen on my campus is pretty disappointing.
Other comments mentioned Tinker V Des Moines, which is based around a pretty similar case and also happened in 1969. I'm honestly shocked that these two things happened in the same year and resulted in such different rulings.
I would definitely take part in social movement protests today. I consider myself fairly well-informed, politically and socially, and there are a number of issues I would stand for, including reproductive rights, LGBT rights and Black Lives Matter.
Shanae M. Online class
Protests are important and should be protected, especially when it is a non-violent protest to appeal to ideology. Because after all, it was the young men who were having to go fight this war. So surely the young men should have a say in it. Right now I am reading "What it's like to go to war" by Karl Marlantes, who is a Rhodes scholar and a Marine who fought in Vietnam. He talks about how educating the soldiers and people back home on war would have helped greatly with PTSD and other issues that stemmed from this war.
I think that once your protest is violent or aggressive (blocking people from entering their classes, or shouting at them or touching them) you lose both the argument and your grounds for being taken seriously. But you have a right to peaceably assemble. Not a privilege, but a right.
I am sure that I could be compelled to protest if rights were being withheld from me. If the government was trying to force me or my family to do something that I felt was unethical/unfair/corrupt I would protest. But, I tend to believe that protesting is only a first step. Then you have to engage in policy making and ideological discussions. And it needs to be both safe and fact based. If you are going to protest, your anger better be backed up by fact. "Facts have no feelings" as Ben Shapiro says, and I agree. Protests only work if, in the end, they can be turned into policy or they can change the current direction of the problem at hand. If it is just angry and violent with no real plan for change (or facts to back it up), it will fall flat. So, I would have to really believe in it and really know my facts before I protested.
After studying the First Amendment and the fine line in which our rights are protected, I'm still shocked to hear the repercussions that occurred with expressing "free speech". We live in a world where we can't imagine what we don't experience - that being said, I cannot imagine any consequences as severe as being expelled or a GPA drop because of something I believed in and vocalizing that belief. Had their protest included violence or any actual harm I could understand punishment but this was taken to an unreasonable level. Before today, I hadn't heard of the San Marcos 10 but I think it's a very important piece of our history especially because we are known for the free speech area on our campus. I am grateful for the progress we've made with our First Amendment right in our society today - but will it ever be perfect?
Andrew F.
Tues/Thurs 11:00am
Ruthann M
online class
After watching the video and listening to the audio I have to say I am pretty disappointed in Texas State. I am shocked at what they did to the San Marcos 10. Especially after reading about the Tinkers and how they won their lawsuit against the school for suspending them for their peaceful protest. I am a fourth generation bobcat so I know I had family members attending SWT at the time this was going on and it makes me even more upset to know that this could have happened to one of them. There is always a lot of controversy when it comes to war. I feel by punishing young adults for a peaceful protest sends the wrong kind of message. Especially when one of those people protesting the war had already been there, fought, and come back. That in my mind is complete malarkey!! I would hope that if this peaceful protest came two months after 9/11/01 that the school would not punish the students involved but allow them to stand up for what they believe is right. I feel like we all come together as Americans in times of crisis to try and be supportive. I feel like the university should also be supportive of it's students and not take away their freedom of speech and their right to a peaceful protest.
I believe the San Marcos 10 were treated unfairly. A student should not be shot down for their own beliefs and it should definitely not effect their education. The protest was a peaceful one that hurt no one and it should not have been handled the way it was by dropping their GPA's down to zero. With the NPR broadcast video being recorded 2 months after the 9/11 terrorist attack, I can see how it bring back memories of the Vietnam war. As of right now, I cannot think of anything that would motivate me to take part in a protest if it got me expelled. However, if it was an issue that effected me or my family and I was passionate about it I would protest peacefully in hope for a change.
I'm very shocked at the punishment the San Marcos 10 received by the university. Today, it's nearly impossible to walk through the quad without seeing students and non-students speaking their opinions and beliefs on controversial subjects. I would be devastated to be expelled after putting so much time and effort into my academics. I have never taken part in a protest, there are no issues I feel strongly passionate about to do such. If I had a right taken away from me that I felt passionate about I would consider joining a peaceful protest. I believe once a protest turns violent the message becomes useless and the group looks foolish.
Sydney Woy
T/TH 11 AM
Personally I am shocked the administrative staff dropped their GPA to a complete zero for the San Marcos 10 The students in my opinion were protesting peacefully and didn't deserve to have their GPA zeroed out. If it is a peaceful protest and no one is being harmed it should be allowed, when it becomes a riot then that is when it should be stopped. The university expresses so much how we should express ourselves and shutting down a student this way is unfair.
Online class
Kathy Cerda
I was completely stunned and troubled by this report and interview. It was appalling to hear how harsh the university was with their punishment against The San Marcos 10 for using their first amendment right and peacefully protesting. Additionally, prior to watching the video by the University Star, I was unaware of the term “yellow light school”. Furthermore, I was not aware that Texas State was classified as a “yellow light school.”
In regards to any political, environmental or social causes that would motivate me to take part in a protest…I’m not sure what would motivate me. I will add that I would be extremely hesitant to take part in a protest on campus now that I am informed of the universities reaction toward this type behavior. I am a very strong believer in the 1st amendment and our constitutional rights, but I would be lying if I said the universities punishments did not terrify me. I couldn’t imagine being so close to graduating and loosing all of my earned credits. I also want to add that my heart broke for David Bayless when he explained the universities “computer glitch” the day of his commencement ceremony. Texas State should be ashamed of their actions toward The San Marcos 10 and their abusive rules regarding the use of our constitutional rights.
Online Class
Carolanna Travis
Like many of my peers, I had never heard of the San Marcos 10. Listening to and watching the links provided, I cannot deny my shock. The idea that my GPA would be lowered or my presence at my university could be removed due to my expression is outrageous. I understand the need to keep a peaceful and positive environment in a place of education. Although I do believe that the extremes taken were completely irrational. I am happy that these actions would not be taken today.
Taylor Stewart
11 AM
After reading others comments, I'm glad I'm not the only one who was unaware of the San Marcos 10. Saying that, I was shocked and hurt to know that something like that happened on Texas State's campus. I think it was clearly a violation of the student's First Amendment rights. However, I think the repercussions towards the students where ridiculous. The fact they lost credit towards their degrees seems so unfair. It is comforting to know that students now have the right to protest peacefully. I would like to do more research on the rules the video talked about when it stated Texas State is a "yellow light" campus. I want to know what rules are still unclear and misunderstood.
Ashley Simpson
2 P.M.
As unjust as the reproductions were for the San Marcos 10, I’m glad these students chose to stay and protest regardless of the “disciplinary action.” However, what’s really sad is that it is still being cited today to suppress freedom of speech in schools. According to a report in the Houston Chronical, this small event in Texas State history has “set a precedent used in court cases” today and has been cited in many other cases around the nation in order to suppress those that nonviolently exercise their freedoms. As a Texas State student myself, this is very disheartening to me. It’s easy to listen to these reports and just assume that it wouldn’t happen in our world today, but it is almost every day. Many students are still being unfairly punished for nonviolent protests and we know little to nothing about it. In my opinion, with the way violent protests are being held today, nonviolent protests should be admired rather than struck down.
Lauren H
T-Th 2pm
I was very surprised after hearing about what happened to the San Marcos 10. I don't think they should've been punished as severely as they were considering they have their First Amendment rights, and they were protesting peacefully from what I could tell. I could only imagine the frustration the males felt after being suspended and knowing there was a possibility of being drafted, which arguably is apart of what they were protesting, as mentioned in the audio clip. I feel like the First Amendment decades ago didn't really guarantee all the freedoms expressed. I'm sure the San Marcos 10 would be happy to see some of the progression Texas State has made in terms of protesting. If I were to be involved in a protest it would most likely be for social issues. I care about "people problems" and would like to see progression. I would still offer support to other causes, but still am most passionate about people's needs.
David Baugh, T/Th 2 p.m.
I find both of the reports interesting. I feel that SWT was in the wrong to discipline those students. They were protected under the first amendment and through the video footage and their NPR interview it appears that no negative reproduction were resulting. I feel like the interview with NPR was almost spooky in regards to the timing. I remember that point in my life and how many people were either pro war or completely against it. It was the first time I ever felt our nation divid. If I was alive during the Vietnam protests I feel like I would have joined them. However, I probably would have stopped my protest when threatened with dicapline. I would have stopped on,y because I don't want anything to interfere my college education.
Joseph Pomar
Online
Safe to say I was disappointed in myself for not knowing about the San Marcos Ten. This is the school that I have spent 4 years on and it will soon be my alma mater and I was completely unaware of its history. It is sad to see that a large group quickly dwindled to a small number because of fear. These 90 students had to choose between their rights of speech and belief and the fear they they will lose their chance of an academic education at the university.
The past couple of years, I have seen a growing number of students participating in marches for different causes ON CAMPUS without the threat of the actions made on the San Marcos Ten. There was a march for Black Lives Matter and the march for Free education that happened just a semester ago.
I am happy to see that students are able to speak their mind without the threat of prosecution or academic probation.
CINDY LE
ONLINE
Andrea M
TH @ 11
I was very surprised that I had never heard of the San Marcos 10 before. This story really jumped out at me because I was shocked that these students received such harsh punishment for simply expressing their views. As a native of the U.S. it is our right to be able to non violently express our belief and then to hear how these students were wrongfully punished was terrible. My social environment would most likely influence me to take part in the protest and stand up for what I believe in.
I'm surprised I had not heard about this before. It was very interesting to be able to create a connection with class material to something very local. They were clearly expressing their First Amendment right of freedom of speech and peaceful assembly. I could feel the frustration felt for the males in the group because of the fear of being drafted for their behavior which was what they were protesting about. It also relates back to the Tinker v. Des Moines case. There was no evidence of a disruption because they were simply doing it as symbolic speech. Such as these students at Southwestern University were doing, expressing a opinion without causing any harm to anyone, but school officials thought otherwise. I think the reason being is with the sentiment of the time and everything happening which plays a role into how people act on events. The students had not even caused any stir, one of the guys in the NPR clip said that the school official said it was better for them to stay away from this because there was a"possibility of disruption caused by this" and ruled based on that they "interfered with the free flow of educational process." In my opinion they were trying to "prevent" a stir and spread the sentiments to other students but in reality it became a bigger stir than if it had been left alone.
Alvaro Melendez
TTH 2 PM
The fact of Texas State being in a yellow light state is news to me, however it does not surprise me now after hearing of the San Marcos 10. Now, it seems that the free speech zone is under control, however I can see that with today's controversial issues regarding gun control (and now with the campus carry law) among many other topics of political and civil discussion that this can quickly transform into a violent issue.
I think it's also interesting that Southwest Texas State College began the chain of name changes, beginning with Southwest Texas State University in 1969 -- around the same time of the Texas 10... Perhaps Southwest Texas State College had received bad press that lowered the admission rate, thus needing the name change?
I remember briefly talking about the San Marcos Ten in one of my classes, but never knew all the details of the story. I never knew that originally one hundred people were protesting before it dwindled down to ten. I think that the punishment they received was very harsh. Not only were they suspended, but they all received zeros for GPAs. The protest didn't cause any violence, they were peaceful about it, so it should have been their right to be there. As far as I'm aware it was still a public university. The NPR broadcast was very interesting to me because it mentioned how David Bayless had actually fought in Vietnam. He said that he would protest no matter what the repercussions would be. I'm not sure what it would take to get me to protest, but I hope that I would be as brave as the San Marcos Ten were. I would also like to add that I think it was really petty that David Bayless wasn't able to walk the station at graduation because of a "computer mistake", which I don't believe.
Brooke C.
11 a.m. T/TH
Breonna R, TR 2PM
Considering how frequently the “free-speech” zone is used to discuss extremely sensitive and controversial topics, I am shocked by Texas State’s reaction to the San Marcos 10 and their slow action to comment on the Black Lives Matter movement on campus today.
From my understanding, very little official opinion has been given about the sit-in at the first, home football game or the die-in protest earlier this week. The University Star and some nearby papers have done stories, but I failed to find any comments made by University officials on the matter.
Completely different responses to very relevant, real, and controversial issues.
However, as for myself, there’s a wide range of topics I would be open to protesting: food industry monopoly, war on poverty, corporate abuse, environmental racism, etc. I would loved to have been a part of protesting the government's response to Hurricane Katrina. However, as I get older and become more civically aware and knowledgeable, I look forward to exercising my first amendment rights more boldly.
In watching the video and listening to the interview, about the San Marcos 10, I was really shocked at the measures that Texas State took and the courts decision to side with the institution. I think there was a point to be made about the students' disobedience that was taken too far by the dean. I was not aware of our university being a yellow light school and makes me wonder what would happen if I ever did feel moved to peacefully protest something significant to me. It is unfortunate that a college would not encourage students to think and speak freely about such a pressing matter at that time. I think as citizens we should be given the opportunity to express those feelings with the comfort of knowing our rights are protected. At this time, I don't know that there is anything specific that I would initiate a protest for... Unless I happened to see a movement against animal cruelty; I have a soft spot for all animals.
I am glad that I learned about this event and that correlates so closely to other cases we are learning about in class.
Crystal S.
T/TH 2pm
T/TH 2pm Lisa Zammiello
I think that the punishment for the San Marcos 10 was a bit extreme. We always take pride in our free speech stallions, yet they are not as protected as we all imagine (at least in that time). I think that the times were very different, and if a protest were to ensue I would protest if it was a cause I truly felt needed to be fought for. I also believe that free speech and open dialogue are more accepted in todays era then in the 70's. I don't think the San Marcos 10 should have been punished to that degree. Those times were more socially conservative times so things like that protest were viewed more radical than today. As far as Texas State being a yellow light school does not concern me too much. We are subjected to rules whether we are a part of the University or not. Four years of being under certain guidelines in order to gain an education is not as bad as some might say. However, I have not experienced such a passion for a cause that would move me to act outside of university guidelines so I can't say for sure if I agree with them.
As many others have said, the punishment the San Marcos 10 received seems pretty extreme, however it's hard to know how extreme it truly was, given the time. I think it would have to be something pretty extreme to motivate me to partake in a protest of that nature; i.e. if the university was doing things in line with extreme police brutality seen in other parts of the country, or being extremely overtly racist. I could see myself partaking in peaceful protests in other areas for other reasons, however.
Victoria B. Online
Watching these videos really opened my eyes and made me realize how much times have changed. If I were a student of the San Marcos Ten, I would feel unjustified and uncomfortable practicing my rights if I was prosecuted in such a way. The punishment they were given was outrageous, expulsion and dropping their grade point averages is an extreme action and is not necessary. One of the biggest freedoms of the first amendment is to be able to stand up for what a person believes and not be punished for it. The protests on the quad are usual occurrences for students today, the San Marcos Ten would have had a better experience then they did in 1969 if they were students now. As a student, I am appalled of how officials handled the situation.
-Kalyn F - Online
I was shocked to hear about the San Marcos 10. I think that Texas State is one of the more progressive schools today as far as support of protest and free speech that I'm amazed that such action was taken against protesters not too long ago. I think that Bayless brings up a still very relevant ideology that some people today still have which is, "America love it or leave it." I believe that it is that kind of thinking that stifles social progress in our country. I think that the San Marcos ten bring up issues that are still prevalent today, and are a very interesting aspect of Texas State's history.
Brianna E. 11AM
I think that the punishment for the students protests was way too severe. Their actions had nothing to do with their performance in their classes, so dropping their GPAs down to zero was completely unfair. If I were in their shoes, I would be like Annie and NOT enroll back at Texas State after such unfair treatment.
I just don't get why the students were punished when they were exercising their First Amendment right in a "free speech zone," especially when there was no evident disruption... It is definitely no reason to suspend students AND drop their hard earned GPA's down.
Sophia Elkins
M,W 2:00.
I felt as though the punishment given to the San Marcos 10 was way out of line. The fact that just because administration didn't agree with their protest, to drop their GPA back to zero when all they were doing was protesting peacefully and expressing their freedom of speech is unnecessary. The Vietnam vet. is better than me, speaking up for what he believed in outweighing his GPA getting dropped to a zero, because if I paid for those classes to earn my credits I'm suing the school or somebody giving my credits back lol. The San Marcos Ten was fearless I respect that they stood up for what they believed in.
Jawaan L.
2 P.M. T/TR
I had yet to hear of the San Marcos Ten, I was very surprised to hear of the harsh repercussions they faced. I am quick to take these simple yet highly important freedoms for granted. It's strange to think how far we have come. It takes a lot for me to be involved in public protest however there are several issues that are being revisited and we are seeming to move backward rather than forward on, such as women's health issues, climate change, and the upcoming election will determine the amount of public protesting I will be involved in for the next coming years.
Allison W, 2 p.m.
I found both of these videos particularly intriguing in that I was unaware of the San Marcos 10 and was quite surprised by the harsh punishment they received for peaceful protest. I would feel inclined to protest against political decisions in this county as they still somewhat reflect the same problems students from the late 60s protested.
Kevin Ford
Online
Benjamin Rauls T-TH 2pm
It’s interesting how when I was a perspective student, our tour guides really pushed the idea of the “Free-Speech Zone” at the Stallions. I’d be very surprised if any of them knew about the San Marcos Ten. I would go on to assume that a large majority of the student body has never either. I don't think the students should have been punished in the first place, but it doesn't surprise me. Dropping their GPA’s to zero seems all kinds of excessive as well. With such a heated war going on and all the cases we have been talking about in class, it doesn't surprise me school officials would resort to such drastic measures
Personally, I have never protested at the Stallions. I do, however appreciate the luxury of students being able to protest on campus without fear of explosion. A luxury that obviously hasn't always been available to students here at Texas State. I support any of my fellow students who wish to peacefully protest, and I would hope if I ever felt compelled to protest, the same would be said to me.
I’m pretty surprised I had never heard of the San Marcos 10, I was shocked about the harsh punishment these students received. The fact that administration lowered their GPA to zero and expelled was too much of a punishment for a peaceful protest, yet saw as a disruption to others. I don’t think they should have been punished that way, I thought that what the first amendment is all about. It is crazy to think that Texas State is a Yellow Light school.
Alejandra Avila
T, Thu 2:00PM
It I just crazy to me to think that their punishments were so severe and that they were punished at all. I always have felt like Texas State University was a safe place to speak your mind or protest. The protest that the San Marcos 10 were involved in would probably be a protest that I would be a part of as well. They were peacefully protesting so I wouldn’t think that it would get them in any trouble. That makes me question myself and the school for any future protests and honestly it scares me a little bit to have any part in it. I also believe that the punishments were way too severe. I could maybe understand suspending a student out of the school but I don’t think changing someone’s GPA is right at all. How could you take all the work a student has done and completely discredit them for something they did without disturbance of the school. I know times have changed but that still seems ridiculous to me. `
-Vianney Strick TTH 11 am
It is very interesting and surprising how the judge upheld the suspension of the San Marcos 10.Although the protesters were punished wrongly for their free speech I feel like Texas State has come a long way in regards to protests and freedom of speech. I believe it was definitely unnecessary for the school to drop the student's GPA because the protest had nothing to do with their education. I have never spoken at the stallions but enjoy listening to what my fellow peers have to say.
Ashley S.
2pm
Lauren Giblin 2pm
This was the first time that I have ever heard of the San Marcos 10. At first I was really angry about how the school handled the matter. I don't think what they did was wrong or disruptive and I believe the students had a right to voice their opinion. That being said and feelings aside, The NPR broadcast mentioned that they knew exactly what the repercussions were and went ahead with it. Now if the students wanted to sue the school for not being able to protest on school grounds, maybe they would have won? In the end this wasn't a case about free speech as much as it was about school policy.
I am highly disappointed in Texas State's decision to suspend the students. I feel like a public university is a place in which people should share their ideas and not be punished or at least not suspended. I feel like they would not do that now only because they would be highly scrutinized by students, parents, and the rest of the United States. I would most likely protest something politically or socially that upsets me. I really hope Texas State does not decide to take extraordinary measures like this in the future!
William, Thomas A, 11 am
Wow its crazy how a majority of the Texas State student body, myself included, has never heard about the San Marcos 10. I was shocked with how the administrators and University handled the situation. The punishment was way out of hand and I am quite surprised no legal precautions were pursued. I could never see this happening this day in age. Protests are the continuously being held throughout the United States regarding a various amount of things. It is our given right as US citizens to use our freedom of speech and protest.
I am a big believer in animal rights so I could see myself protesting for that.
Jacob Boucher
11 am
I think this is very interesting that San Marcos 10 isn't very well known by Texas State students, especially being a Mass Comm major. I believe that the ten students who were given a GPA of zero and expelled were served unjustly. The administration took extreme action with doing so and I believe were infringing upon their rights as an American citizen.
Audra Register
11 am
When I watched the first video I was shocked to see that the 10 students were punished that bad. If my college treated to drop my GPA down that low, I’m not sure if i would be able to go through with it. I mean it was a non violent protest! I don’t understand why so many young Americans are getting reprimanded, even now, because they are speaking up and standing up for what they believe in. Personally, I feel like its becoming less about the 1st amendment and its becoming more about the people in power agreeing with the view that the protesters or underdogs have, I feel like they find away to use the constitution as a tool to find loop holes in basic civil rights. I believe that today, in 2016, thanks to technology people are starting to have a larger voice on the issues and exercising their 1st amendment rights. I just hope that the people in power listen.
I can't believe that the San Marcos 10 had all of their college credit taken from them. I don't think that universities should have the right to do something like that because those students' tuition was paid for, so the university should not have punished them by taking away their credit. If the university feels that they need to expel the students because they sent a message about the war then that is also taking away their first amendment right. As I've learned in class, I understand that the university may be within it's rights by expelling the students but I become less convinced when it comes to taking away the work they've done before hand. I would definatley protest for having my GPA dropped and my credit taken away
Kimberly Garcia
11 am TTH
In todays day and age it is mind blowing to hear the drastic measures that were taken at the time. Seeing the "freedom of speech" zone in the quad is all todays students have ever known. It is crazy to think that one day on this same campus, in the same area, that students were not only told no, but were punished. Although I have my own political views and opinions, I believe you should be able to stand up for what you believe in without consequence. I would not have participated in the protest but I would have certainly taken action in helping the students who were expelled from the University. I am shocked I have never, until this point, been made aware of this major point in Texas State University's history. I hope that more students can be made aware of this monumental point in history. I am proud to attend a school that has overcome this issue and has a specified zone on campus for students to safely and peacefully voice their concerns.
Shelby Phillips
11 am
Megan H. 2p.m.
Learning about the San Marcos 10 was very interesting because I had no idea that had ever happened. The consequences the group received is outrageous to me for many reasons. For one, Texas State today is so liberal and nothing like this would ever happen in this day. Also, I find it odd that they were not harming anyone, but yet had such hard punishment. I don't know how far I would go in protesting for something I believed in if it meant losing my education that I worked many years for, but I would have to be in the situation to really know. I think that Texas State has come a very long way and students are treated very fairly in today's society.
Learning about your schools history can always be interesting. It's crazy something like that happened here on campus which resulted in 10 students getting expelled. David Bayless, one of the San Marcos Ten, said in the interview that he served in the Vietnam war before attending South West Texas State University. That really intrigued me knowing the fact that he has already experienced the war and has these opinions on the war from first hand experience.If i felt strongly about a certain situation that effected the way i live my life, then you best believe id be right in the middle of a peaceful protest. I currently have not been effected emotionally or physically to actually take part in a protest to this day.
Bobby K-H 2 p.m.
This entire situation is pretty crazy. I'm not surprised by the outcome of the punishment due to the time in history. I've always thought of Texas State University as being a pretty free speech and protest university, but the case of the San Marcos 10 has changed my perspective. Personally, I would probably protest at Texas State about the right of students. As we've gone over in chapter three, it's an area that is sensitive to most students. aIf there was a protest for these rights, I would be in support. Also, the recent expression of the Black Lives Matter protest would be something that I could possibly protest with. This is my position based on the fact that the protest was tasteful (in my opinion) and wasn't based on opinions, but the civil liberties that we all carry today that are based on the rights of all human beings to be treated equally.
Andrea T.
TTh 11 a.m.
After watching and listening to the video and radio clip, I found them both very interesting about the San Marcos 10. I felt as if the students were treated unfair and unlawfully when all they were doing was a peaceful protest. These students weren't able to express their constitutional rights and the way the university handled it shocks me honestly. I have grown up learning to always respect the men and women who fight for our country, but I feel as if the university and administrators did not have any respect for the men in war. Now if this were to happen today on our campus, I believe the reason why I would take part in this protest would be for the political and social issues.
Sarah R.
T/Th 11 am
After listening to the radio broadcast and watching the video clip from The University Star, I am surprised with the consequence that the San Marcos 10 received for peacefully protesting and expressing their opinions. It does seem like the pattern from the cases we have learned about in class is apparent in the ruling of the San Marcos 10 though which just reflects the era. These students were not trying to cause imminent lawless action but since they were under the Incitement test and the school felt that the crowd they were drawing could become violent, their first amendment right to free speech was taken away. I personally do not agree with the decision of the court or the consequence from the school but this was the ruling of the time. I also think it is particularly interesting that the protest started out with a large group and shrunk to just 10 people. I believe that shows how punishment or fear of punishment can censor people's opinions on an issue. If there was an issue on campus that I felt very strongly about, I would definitely take this case into consideration and stand up for what I believe in because it is our right as U.S. citizens.
Laura C. 2 p.m.
By listening to the recorded interview by the University Star and the NPR report podcast I was shocked to learn the struggles that the Texas State University students had to encounter regarding free speech. Before reading this I had never heard of the San Marcos 10 and it is unfortunate that they were treated in such an unconstitutional manner by a school that should be providing scholarly guidance. The social injustice that these 10 students went through for speaking out about the Vietnam War should have not come as a surprise seeing it was a controversial topic all around America at the time. The protest was non-violent and under control yet the school felt the need to threaten any student that participated in the protest with a dropped GPA leading to expulsion from the university. That being said I am grateful that Texas State University has improved from this incident by encouraging any subject of free speech output a student would want to express in the quad by the horse statue.
Haley B. 2 p.m.
It amazes me how something that was SILENT and NONVIOLENT (but especially silent) caused students to be expelled from school and lose their chance of obtaining a degree. The San Marcos ten were brave and I admire them for holding their ground standing up for what they believed in. Bill Cunningham said it best when he said, “The students were denied their rights as guaranteed by the United States Constitution and that the only people breaking the law were the administrators of South West Texas.” I had no idea that Texas State is a “yellow light school”. After listening to the second one it made me realize that I hadn’t even thought about the men getting kicked out of school at the time being drafted. That really would have been sad to legally fight for your beliefs and then get everything you had worked for taken away from you, plus get sent to a place that was against your beliefs. I also didn’t like how the letter from the Dean was not specific on the consequences they would face if they pursued the protest. Not to mention the “computer mistake” that wouldn’t allow one of the protestors to get his degree on stage when he came back years later to finish school. I am not honestly sure if there would be some cause that had strong enough ties with me to be a part of a protest. I HATE confrontation but I guess if it really rubbed me wrong and I found it completely unethical I would take part in a peaceful protest.
Erinn J.
T/TH 2p.m.
I was honestly pretty shocked after watching and listening to these reports and the way these students were treated. I have always felt as if our campus embraced diversity as well as protest. I am also surprised that I have never heard of The San Marcos 10, considering I am a Senior Mass Communications major here. I felt as though the students receiving a zero GPA and expelled is completely wrong and unjust. The faculty deciding on these punishments took too extreme of action and in my opinion, infringed on these students rights as an American. Also, if a cause directly affected me whether it be environmental, social ect., I would definately take part in a peaceful protest if I felt passionate enough to do so.
Corey R. 11 am
I think the way the students were treated was absolutely ridiculous. I don’t believe they should have been in any trouble do to the fact that this is a public university and they had they right to free speech under the first amendment. There was no violence towards faculty or any other students, they were simply inflicting their first amendment rights. If this were to happen today, or in more recent years, then I feel like it would be more acceptable to everyone given the direction our rights are going now a days, even though they should have been like that back then.
The obvious thing that just cannot be overstated is that this was a clear violation of the constitution. The law was abused and it can’t even be calculated how many lives were ruined due to this injustice. Everyone has the right to their own opinion, but I believe individuals would distain hearing something like this around the September 11 era. The only thing that could potentially motivate me to protest for any reason would be if an injustice happens to a family member of mine. I’ve witnessed too many peaceful protest go awry.
Osita O. 11am
I am pretty shocked on the San Marcos Ten decision. I feel as if it was unlawful. It made me feel as if the first amendment didn't mean much when the government gets involved. Texas State is a public university and i feel that the shouldn't be punished for expressing their feelings or standing up for what they believe in even if not everyone agrees. NO VIOLENCE occurred with students or staff. I understand times were different but there is still no right way to take away someones liberty given to them by the constitution.
Sydney Herrera
2pm T-TH
Diana Gonzalez
11am
I never knew about the San Marcos 10, so this post was very intriguing to me. Considering the time period when the protest occurred, and while I don't agree on how the school administration handled it, I understand why the decision was upheld. I found it interesting how Bayless said that he could see it happening again in a period where the nation seemed to be pro-war. Knowing what I know now, I would've been a little worried about protesting but I think Texas State has changed for the better. I've always know the Stallions to be the one place where anyone is free to peacefully express whatever they want, even when it's not a popular opinion. I'm not the protesting type but if there was a cause I was passionate about I think I could confidently protest on campus without having to fear a similar outcome of the SM 10.
Albert B. 2 pm T/TH
This decision is unconstitutional and should not played out like it did. I am shocked to hear that I have never heard of this incident that took place here at Texas State (formally Southwest Texas State University). I also don't agree with the action and procedures taken by the University at the time. To suspend those 10 students for exercising their first amendment rights of free speech and assembly is totally erroneous and absurd. Personally, I would have loved to be apart of this protest on the basis of political issues. One issue that would have motivated me to attend would be the fact that the Vietnam War was already highly opposed, mainly because it was seen as an excuse to intervene with the communist regime in South Vietnam.
Autumn B. 2 p.m.
The main thing that stood out for me when watching the video was the fact that the original protest started with 100 people, but then dropped to 10 after a "disciplinary action" threat. I expected more people to stay. However after listening to the NPR report, Annie Burleson mentioned that if the males in the group would have been kicked out of school they would have to be drafted into the Vietnam War, the exact thing they are protesting.
This situation reminds me a lot of the Tinker case because their protest was a nonviolent, civil action. However, the main difference in my eyes was that the Tinker case involved kids in grade school, yet they were still given full First Amendment rights. The San Marcos 10 is dealing with adults in college that, as stated above, have a very high probability of getting drafted to the war.
I think their punishments were unfair and not proportional to their actions. The school's reasoning for the suspensions doesn't make much sense to me. The dean said while "the group wasn't causing any problems, there was the possibility that there might be a disruption caused by this." That seems like a very circular argument relying on the "What if" game that shouldn't hold up in court.
On another note, I also find it very juvenile that the university refused to let David Bayless walk across the stage for graduation and instead mailed his diploma to him.
I, personally, would participate in a protest if I found it was appropriate and believed that the protest would actually do something. If I have doubts, I would find another way to get my point across.
Clayton Kolavo 2:00 TTh
I think the San Marcos 10 being kicked out of school because of a silent protest against a war they believed shouldn't have been a thing. People are given the right to protest and assemble, so I don't quite see how Southwest Texas State got away with this one. I would like to hear more about the court process and how that went, because you would think, based on the First Amendment, that those 10 protesters would be reinstated by a unanimous decision.
I also cannot believe that the university reinstated the one man on the NPR report, but would not let him walk at graduation. Did they reinstate him and forget what he did a few years back and then just say "oh yeah!" and decide to not let him walk?
Clayton Kolavo 2:00 TTh
I don't see myself participating in any protests at the moment, but I can see myself joining one if the circumstance arose.
Erica Browning 11am Media Law
I was also surprised like many others that I had never heard of the San Marcos 10. It is interesting to see how the administration was allowed to have a disregard for the law during that time and the students could not do anything about their rights being infringed upon. I felt really bad for the students because they had to choose between their beliefs and their education. It is crazy because I feel like things have changed so much at Texas State University in modern day. I saw 2 of my friends actually speaking in the first video about free speech at Texas State and couldn’t even imagine if someone were to threaten their ability to go to the school for their position on a certain topic. I’m very thankful we are able to express and peacefully protest with less fear today. Just last week I attended a peaceful protest on campus for BLM and couldn’t even imagine if the rules of the time were still standing now, would I still be in school today, who knows.
Like a lot of other people here, this was something I was totally unaware of. It's very surprising to learn that this kind of thing happened here on our campus. This situation is in great contrast with the perception I think most people have of this university.
Meghan Hopper
T/TH 2:00-3:30
Similar to the majority of the comments on here I have been very unaware of the San Marcos 10. I feel the way the university behaved is absolutely unacceptable. These students did not disturb any classes and protested peacefully. They were exercising their right to free speech, the university is the one that is in the wrong, not the students. These students should not have gotten suspended from school for exercising their right of free speech. Also, the fact that the man in the NPR clip was denied the chance to walk across the stage when he returned to the university is terrible. I feel more students need to be aware of the San Marcos 10, I am glad I now know their story.
Sergio Garcia
T/TH 2:00-3:20
It was kinda frustrating to watch the video and listen to the audio of the overall circumstance that the San Marcos 10 had to deal with. One thing to note is that there were no school events, nor was it school sponsor involvement while the protest were going on. It's such a funny coincidence that this occurred the same year as the Tinker V. Des Moines case. So I wondered if they could've applied that case to their's if it were possible. I think that the university took it to far when they expelled the students, as well as take away apart of their G.P.A. Also to be noted was that there was no call to action nor call of abstract demonstrations. I think after listening to this story, that us students should really look back and think just how lucky we are that, while time passed ,the different meanings (interpretations) of the first amendment have been understood.
Brandon Valencia TT 2:00
It's crazy that that happened on the Texas state campus. I had no idea about the San Marcos 10. It's mind blowing to see students being acted upon for expressing their right of free speech. Same with guy from the NPR clip. It's unfair to not allow him to walk across the stage. Yet back then they could do these things to students. Weird how much the university has changed with society evolving. And crazy to think how much more liberal the university has become. If students were denied in today's day and age people would go bananas.
I did not know about this case up until now. These 10 students were very brave to firmly stood in what they believed in. If I knew I was going to be suspended from school, I would had probably just left. However it was unfair what the administration did to them. It was a public school so they had a right to freely express what they believed in, even if it was against the Vietnam War. What happened to the newspaper editor reminded me to the Hazelwood V. Kuhlmeier, however this was different since this happened in a college newspaper, not a high school one. I am glad our university has evolved and we have a public space to freely speak about our ideas. I have never been a fan of public protests. I think I would never be a part of one even if I agree with what the protest is about.
Maria Martinez
T/TH 11:00
I found both of these videos to be very interesting. Before watching the videos I had not heard about the San Marcos 10. I was very surprised by how harsh these students were punished for simply expressing their rights in a peaceful protest. I believe that my social environment could possibly motivate me to take part in a peaceful protest if I felt very strong about it.
Chelsea Kubenka
T/TH 2:00
I've never heard of the San Marcos 10 before and am shocked on how strict our University used to be. We are so liberal and open to all forms of freedom of speech now that it's hard to watch what these poor students went through. I'm so thankful that our justice system has evolved into a more progressive, objective process rather than harsh punishment for peaceful protesting these students displayed. The fact that NPR conducted the interview so shortly following 9/11 was also a little upsetting for me. I understand that journalism is meant to inform and evoke response, however, it seems less likely that American's would identify with the San Marcos 10 so soon after an awful tragedy that caused an outcry demanding war.
Brooke Flores
T/TH 11AM
Seems like a classic case of prior restraint to me since they were restricted from putting on the demonstration before it even happened. I'm shocked that even though it was a peaceful (silent at that!) protest and that idiot judge decide to rule based off of the attention it got from onlookers. "Interfered with the free flow of education"? Get out of here!
In regards to this interview being conducted so shortly after 9/11 is in some way brilliant because it challenges the listener to consider how he or she would react if the same thing happened at that time. It would be no different. There would only be a select few like the San Marcos 10 that would speak out against the war and others would condemn them for it.
I am not sure if I would have joined a protest after 9/11. I was young, but in impacted me. We were stationed in England at the time (Air Force) and my dad had to go away for several months. My uncle was also NYD at the time and witnessed the massive amount of dead bodies in the aftermath. I can imagine wanting to get in there and kick some terrorist ass, but at the same time I just wanted my dad home and my uncle to rest easy.
Michela Johnson T/TH 2pm
Danielle Coon
T/TH 2pm
I found both of these to be extremely interesting but I am shocked to learn of the San Marcos 10. I think that today San Marcos and Texas State are so liberal and open to anything that it surprised me that something so peaceful ended with the punishments they received. I can't imagine something like that happening today. Even recently with students practicing their first amendments at a football game, if they had been treated that way today it would have made the news everywhere. Sometimes I feel like Texas State is so open to everything that it really surprised me to read something like that.
I have never heard of the San Marcos 10 before. The outcome of the protest is very shocking to me. Their call to action was not harmful to national security, welfare, etc. They were not using any acts of violence. They were peacefully petitioning the Vietnam War, yet they got suspended from university. The punishment the San Marcos 10 received was unfair. They were at a public university at a free speech zone, so it does not make since that their first amendment right was stripped from them.
Emily.B
T/TH 11-12:20
I am actually shocked about the outcome. From my perspective, the San Marcos 10 were only peacefully protesting something that they felt strongly about. This is such a stark contrast of how liberal and open the University is today.
Anne O.
T/TH 2pm
Hello all,
The arrests of the San Marcos Ten would be down right ridiculous nowadays. However, at that time it was most likely considered a war crime since it detested a pro-war perspective. I have been raised in a much more liberal society and ability to express opinion peacefully is much more so respected. I will normally do almost anything in my power to avoid the Quad on days when I hear public protests, speakers or even just multiple tents up because I generally dislike being haggled about buying something or donating money or being told I'm a fool for believing in God and so on.
History has taught us that our military presence in Vietnam and the Middle East has left countless dead and little good has come from either war. I imagine if a similar protest were to be held on campus today, there would be little dissent unless it were to provoke violence.
As far as moving me to protest on campus, It would take something very serious to make me want to risk my social status and education on disseminating my opinion. I wouldn't contest the election or campus carry, for example, unless obviously malicious horrors took place because of them. As for the clowns however, that would be a different story. #quitClowninAround
Thank you,
-Logan Paul Martin
T/TH 11Am-12:20PM
I have never heard of this before now. You always hear about things like this happening at other universities but it is crazy to think it actually happened here. The fact that the university was able to do what they did is unbelievable. I can understand that the country was going through a rough time and I bet that had an impact on how the university was thinking, but nobody should react without thinking like this.
-Kyle B. T/TH 2 p.m.
After watching the video and listening to the interview with David Bayless and Annie Burleson I am completely shocked that Texas State University had the discretion to take away all of the student's university credit. I think the administration's decision to punish them that severely was way out of line. Also, the fact that the basis of the case against the San Marcos 10 was that the crowd was disruptive is unfair.
I think that I would be willing to participate in a protest if I felt that people needed to be more aware of a specific important topic that effects society as a whole. I think protests are a great way to be heard and spark the movement for progressive change.
Malea Hall
11 A.M.
I found it very interesting that since we have been covering cases that deal with First Amendment rights, that Texas State which was Southwest Texas State back in 1969 and was also a public school, would completely throw out the right to free speech protected by the First Amendment. What I find even more shocking is the fact that all 10 of the students that continued to protest and practice their free speech rights were expelled and had all of their GPA's reduced
If America goes to another war, there will be tons and tons of student protesters at Texas State and I'm sure many other universities across the country. I would be willing to protest for America to not go to war again, on the account that war is not the answer.
Matt Perry
2 P.M.
Emmanuel Ruan T/TH 2pm
After listening and watching both reports, I am very shocked by what happened to the San Marcos 10. I think it would be smart for the University to make an attempt to educate their students on this group. Obviously the issue of free speech has changed since that time period. Honestly for the student to be expelled from a University just for protesting in a civil and peaceful manner, seems very harsh and over the top. No specific topic comes to mind in which i would be well-versed to stand up and protest in front of a crowd. maybe it might be my lack of knowledge or maybe it the lack of passion for a controversial topic that it stopping me.
Surprisingly, this is my first time hearing about the San Marcos 10, and I am astounded to hear about their suspension. From what I have seen of my three years of attending Texas State, is that our university has its own character and personality represented by each individual on campus. To think that it once wasn't like that bewilders me. However, I'm not shocked to hear that officials highly disapproved of this protest during that time frame.
Hearing the story of the San Marcos 10 inspires me express my voice in certain protests. I respect and cherish the right to protest, and if there was a cause I wanted to represent, I would do so.
Bri Watkins
T/TH, 11 a.m.
Leslie Moran T/TH 2-3:20pm
I was previously unaware of the San Marcos 10 before watching and listening to these reports. It is hard for me to believe that such a liberal university like Texas State would take such drastic measures and disciplinary action against these students peaceful protest in the 60s. Although those were different times, and anti-war protest were highly disliked, keeping people from having the right to their first amendments is never a logical idea. There will always be pressing issues that need to be discussed, in specific today the election coming up is something that I know multiple people are concerned with. Not being allowed to freely speak your opinion about issues that are prevalent and concerning would have detrimental effect on our student body. Freedom of speech is the basis for what this nation is build upon. I believe the San Marcos 10 were wrongfully punished for peacefully expressing their opinions. I applaud the San Marcos 10 and would myself protest a controversial topic that I was passionate about if needed be, never staying silent on an issue of importance is something I firmly believe in.
Spencer Borst T/TH 2-3:30
This is also my first time hearing about the San Marocs 10! It was interesting to learn new things about our school & it's history. I was so surprised that they were so strict on these students for having an opinion & standing up for what they believe in when our school is so supportive of free speech today. I personally don't think I would take part in the protest, however. I'm not one to go against the rules if I know I will get in trouble!!
This was the first I had heard of the San Marcos ten and I cannot believe something like this happened at our University. To be suspended for something so calm and nonviolent is crazy. I mean compared to the things that occur on campus these days and receive no punishment seem outrageous compared to that.Our country seemed to be at a very intense time during the war and things seemed to out of control. Although I can't say it doesn't seem the same now or during the time of the interview right after 9/11. On the video they said something about Texas State still being a yellow light school and has policies that abuse student rights really bothers me. I don't feel comfortable knowing that is a possibility. The video also inspired me at the end to really make sure things like this don't go unnoticed and we really need to fight for our rights!
-R.K. 2 p.m.
Amanda Flinn T/Th 11-12:20
I had never heard of the San Marcos Ten before this video, but I think it is a very important part of our University's history. The severity of their punishment is the most shocking part of their story. I couldn't imagine the uproar that would occur if something similar were to happen today. It's disappointing that a silent protest was allowed to derail the education of 10 students. There are certain causes that I feel very strongly about, but I don't think I would take part in a traditional type of protest. I feel like there are other methods that can get my point across.
I was really intrigued by the two videos posted since I had never heard about the San Marcos 10 until now. It's crazy to me that the punishment put onto the students were so harsh. I could understand being kicked out from the school but to have their GPA's dropped to zero affects them outside of the university as well. I guess since it was the timing of when the protest was conveyed that makes it a little more punishable. I'm glad Texas State has progressed when it comes to allowing their students to be more expressive.
Brooke S. T/TH 2:00
I had never heard of the San Marcos 10, and am very surprised at their severe punishment. I can understand the suspension... but dropping their GPA to a zero is something that affects them more than just inside the university. I personally don't think I would ever take part in this kind of protest, but don't feel like this kind of harsh punishment wasn't deserved. After all, they were at at the free speech area on a public university campus.
Victoria B @11
I'm very surprised to have never heard of the San Marcos 10 in any government or speech classes while here at Texas State. With all the speeches that I've witnessed on campus by students, I would have never thought that the school administration would expel students and give them no university credit. Knowing that something as small as a silent, non-violent protest would cause this much damage to your educational reputation inhibits me from engaging in activity. But that being said, all power to the students who believe that they want their voice to be heard on current pressing issues.
It is interesting to hear these stories because I never thought about what had happened at our campus before I started attending the school. It is good to hear stories about the school's past. I think it is important that students are able to voice their opinions, but in the right way. As long as it is peaceful protest, I am all for letting people share their ideas. However, I was shocked that the school expelled students and gave them no university credit. Protesting isn't my personality so I probably wouldn't participate.
Kristy D. 2pm
Maha Rizvi MC 4301 ONLINE
Reading and listening to the radio podcast was very interesting because I never heard about the San Marcos 10. It's very strange to think that students were expelled from the University and had their GPA's dropped for expressing themselves. Even one member from the San Marcos 10 couldn't walk the graduation stage. I believe that the whole situation is very unjust because it is unconstitutional and a very harsh treatment for students expressing themselves.
Christa Trevino MC 4301 T/TH 2-3:20PM
I didn't know about the San Marcos 10. No one ever brought it up and I think that's a shame. How could they be expelled for doing nothing but sitting down and holding up a sign in protest of something they thought was wrong? The case wasn't even judged against them in particular. It was the fact that everyone else made a deal about it that made it disrupting. They themselves did nothing wrong, and yet they were punished. That's so wrong and I'm ashamed that our university did such a thing. It disgusts me. I feel I would've been part of that group myself! I'm also anti-war and against anything that I feel harms people in any way, be it war, LGBTQ violence, black violence, mental health defamation, etc. I would stand by any of those movements and if they're going to punish me for standing up for my fellow students and safety, then I'm not going down without a fight.
It's a shame that our own public university did not support the free expression of its own students especially on something as wrong as war, in my opinion. If it were 30 years earlier I probably would have been expelled for something I believe in, which is peace and love. The fact that they completely disregarded their first amendment rights disgusts me and makes me embarrassed for the actions taken by the administrators and judges that ultimately made the final decision to take away their hard earned college careers. Then to silence a teacher for standing up for them and fire him is just plain wrong, no justice what-so-ever. I hope that we have come a long way since then, and I don't hear about people being silenced for their free speech at Texas State anymore, but who knows? If it could happen 30 years ago with the Vietnam war then it could surely happen again with the absurd war we are still fighting today. I would most certainly be willing to protest and give up my degree just to be heard as a human being and congratulate the San Marcos 10 for their sacrifice towards free speech, which is one of the principles this country was founded upon.
☮-Jarett Stewart
Savannah Carroll-Gonzalez TR 11a.m.
I found this very interesting and I am very surprised that I had never heard of the San Marcos 10 before. I love hearing from older generations about their time and how so much has changed. It's a shame though that after three years of being at Texas State this is the first time I've heard about the San Marcos 10. It's crazy to me that they got expelled for doing this silent protest. Now it's normal for someone to be standing by the stallions talking about anything and everything. I would never think that it would cause a group of people to get expelled and drop their GPA's to 0.
Mary Bosquez TR 11:00 a.m.
Watching and listening to the video really made me think about the way the first amendment is perceived by some. At the end of the NPR sound clip the interviewer asks the other about if they think something like that would happen again if students are opposed to the war again. They said absolutely. My question is if the schools reactions and consequences would be the same today? Today with so many media outlets, the whole world would know what happened in minutes. Especially lately with all the recent protests, they will be a heated topic. Just the other day in the quad i saw and listened to a Black Lives Matter protest, it stayed clam and it was very successful in my oponion. Faculty were there observing making sure no violence happened. If that were an anti war protest, i don't see why anybody would be in any trouble. I think since 1969, the courts are more careful about the first amendment and that there would not be punishments for a protest like that.
I had heard about the San Marcos 10 after taking the course "Rhetoric of Protest" here at Texas State. I love that the history of Texas State is enriched with this nature of standing up for what we as individuals believe in. I was not shocked to learn when the administration had expelled the students, and dropped their gpa's to 0. This was just the nature of the world back then. Without the technology for other groups of students with similar ideological beliefs as the San Marcos 10 to likewise stand up in solidarity, it only makes sense that the administration would believe it had the right to act in such a way.
Nowadays, universities know they would never get away with something so blatantly unconstitutional. CNN would have reporters here, it would be trending on facebook and justice would be on the side of the protestors. I am lucky to call Texas State University my home.
I find this very intriguing especially since I have never heard of the San Marcos 10. Students at Texas State know that lots of people like to express their opinions here on campus especially on the stallions in the quad. With something like this, I don't think I would have participated in something like this because I would need to know more information about it. But as an electronic media student, I would have loved to cover something like this. Just to be able to talk to the individuals that participated in this protest as well as talk to university officials about the outcome would have been amazing to cover. We kind of see something like this happening today with the Black Lives Matter protests that are happening on-campus this semester. From the die-in to the sit-in, many African-American Texas State students are bringing attention to the movement and expressing their thoughts on the stallions. The only difference right now is that the Texas State Dean of Students Office has not stepped in yet; which will be interesting to see if they do.
The video and podcast were both interesting and it's kind of not surprising that the San Marcos 10 faced this punishment. It was a much different time and institutions as big as Universities and government institutions were allowed to get away with much more at the time. Dropping their GPA to zero is a crazy and afterthought now because something like that would be unimaginable nowadays. I can't see myself standing up and protesting anything right now but I also haven't had to face anything I've severely disagreed with as of yet. I suppose if something severe did come along and it affected my life greatly, something that infringed upon my rights as a citizen, I could see myself protesting.
Cecilia L.
MC 4301 Online
It's so amazing at how much history Texas State has to offer. I highly admire those 10 students that had the courage to stand up and express their beliefs. Of course, the punishment that they received is beyond extreme but they were completely different times back then and speaking one's mind was frowned upon. I could not imagine the outrage students would have if this would have occurred in today's times. No justice or fairness was shown on behalf of the University and especially towards the professor who got fired for standing up for them. I know that if I was alive during those times, I would most definitely stand against my beliefs and my words and would fight my way into making things right and fair. Although being a female in those times would create even more difficulty in speaking out, I feel as though I would still defend my position and of others and seek justice until its met. I am not one for war and speaking out against it is something I would take pride in in hopes to make our nation great again.
Meagan Kerr
11 am T/R
I believe the San Marcos Ten are very admirable in the way they stood up for what they believed in. Although they knew of the punishment, it's hard for me to feel empathetic towards the consequences they faced. The protest was not a violent one and for the school to think that it was going to "disrupt the flow of education" was kind of alarming to me. Today, there are a lot of protesters, or religious advocates that greatly disrupt us (students) on our way to and from class, especially when some convey their message in a mean-spirited manner. It's interesting how much of a sensitive issue the Vietnam War was. I am a person who always stands up for what I think is right, but to jeaporadize my education would be something I would not be able to compromise.
Katerina Charalambous
2 pm Tuesday/Thursday
I thought it was very interesting to see how the Texas State Ten students actually stayed throughout the entire protest and how many students left once they found out there was going to be severe consequences. It showed those few students stuck to their beliefs and stood up for their right to protest and petition freely but also peacefully.it was sad to see they were punished the way they were, especially when this protest had no violence in it or after the protest. I believe they were wrongfully punished. I think it is also interesting to see what it is like now a days and to compare it to the past. You see students standing in the quad protesting about something they believe in and watching all the other students interact and chime in with their own opinions. I personally enjoy watching these protests go on and maybe one day I will get involved.
Megan Harris
2 PM T/TH
I thought it was interesting that they were suspended for a peaceful protest because it might cause other students to cause a problem surrounding it. I think I probably would have been with the other 90 protestors that left when they were told they would see consequences. I like to stand up for what I think is right, but when you take away something I've worked for, it doesn't seem worth it.
I'm surprised by how severe the punishment for this San Marcos 10 was. It would be one thing to suspend them but to expel them and take away their college credit is very harsh. I also find it very odd since where they were protesting is now our free speech area and students often protest there so I guess maybe they did change things a little bit for Texas State.
Rachel Bloom TTH 11:00
I believe the decision towards the San Marcos Ten was unjust and wrong. The San Marcos Ten shared their beliefs in a non-violent matter. No matter how unpopular their opinion was, they should have been allowed to express it without fear of punishment. I am glad that in 2016, myself and fellow students can share almost any opinion without fear of retribution through the university. I could see myself engaging in similar protest if the university, or the nation began infringing on my rights of assembly. As a member of Greek Life on this campus, we are harshly and inaccurately judged by those who only follow headlines, similar to minority groups in the past. If the University followed in the footsteps of other colleges, and began tearing apart good organizations I would feel it's my duty to protest.
Jesse D (2p.m.)
Richard Dray 2p.m. TTH
I was intrigued by both the NPR segment and the U Star video. I hadn't heard of the San Marcos 10 before and I was interested to see what the Stallions liked like back then. I feel that these students were mistreated and that their rights were infringed upon by the school. I'm saddened to see that our school treated this peaceful protest with such disdain and I sincerely hope that today in 2016 our students are treated with more respect. What surprised me the most was that the students weren't able to fight their expulsion as I would have thought that peaceful protest was within their first amendment rights. I would be interested to hear why the San Marcos 10 were not able to fight the decision. As far as an issue that would spur me to protest goes, I would be willing to take part in any protest that fights injustice or the constriction of freedom in our country. I recently became a U.S. citizen and I feel that because of that it is my responsibility as well as the responsibility of other citizens to fight any kind of societal unfairness or intolerance. In addition I feel that any protest that fights to protect the environment is incredibly important and would always garner my support.
Richard Dray 2p.m. TTH
I was intrigued by both the NPR segment and the U Star video. I hadn't heard of the San Marcos 10 before and I was interested to see what the Stallions liked like back then. I feel that these students were mistreated and that their rights were infringed upon by the school. I'm saddened to see that our school treated this peaceful protest with such disdain and I sincerely hope that today in 2016 our students are treated with more respect. What surprised me the most was that the students weren't able to fight their expulsion as I would have thought that peaceful protest was within their first amendment rights. I would be interested to hear why the San Marcos 10 were not able to fight the decision. As far as an issue that would spur me to protest goes, I would be willing to take part in any protest that fights injustice or the constriction of freedom in our country. I recently became a U.S. citizen and I feel that because of that it is my responsibility as well as the responsibility of other citizens to fight any kind of societal unfairness or intolerance. In addition I feel that any protest that fights to protect the environment is incredibly important and would always garner my support.
October 11, 2016 at 1:51 PM Delete
I have to say that although I hadn't heard about these anti-Vietnam War protests occurring at Texas State before, they don't surprise me one bit. I find that the Vietnam War -- as brutal and absolutely terrifying for young people as it was -- created a sense of student unity across the United States. Students were willing to sacrifice their reputations, GPAs, job titles and freedoms (due to some arrests) to make bold statements about the draft. To be clear, many of the harshest sacrifices were made without the consent of students as countless young men were drafted to the war. I find that this political climate created a resurgence in the passion for the First Amendment. I think nowadays many student protests lack the same passion, perhaps because it doesn't feel as close to home. I have, however, been impressed with the student involvement in the Black Lives Matter movement at Texas State. I think I personally am inclined to be actively involved in movements and protests when I see the people around me suffering from injustices. So the Black Lives Matter, gay marriage and feminist movements were a few examples of protests I wanted to support. As a woman, I obviously care a lot about women's rights and sexual assault awareness.
Media Law, Tues/Thurs 2pm
Francesca Neely-Dickey
I found the video and the broadcast very alarming. I had no idea about the San Marcos 10, or the fact that Texas State expelled the 10 students for protesting the Vietnam War. Especially the fact that they dropped all of the students credit hours to zero. It was interesting to learn about this part of Texas State's history and the fact that they eventually allowed one of the students to come back and get his Bachelor's Degree in English. But the best part was that they "accidentally" made a computer error and didn't allow him to walk the stage at graduation. I had no idea Texas State suppressed these students free speech rights and it was interesting to see how they treated a student that tried to return for his degree. I also believe if the case had originally been decided by a jury instead of a judge, that the convictions would have been overturned. I am not much of an activist but I would support the students who protested the War if I was going to Southwest Texas State at the time.
After watching the NPR interview and U Star video about the San Marcos Ten, I was shocked that Southwest Texas State University suspended the students who peacefully protested on campus about the Vietnam War. The fact that the students who showed no violence thus advocating their first amendment right of freedom of speech and expression were all given a zero for their GPA is absolutely disgraceful in my opinion. Part of being an American means that we have the right to our first amendment giving us freedom of speech. If there was violence caused by this protest then I would understand the re precautions, but there was no act of violence. This tells me that the school system and administrators deliberately chose to ignore the students natural freedoms and rights.
It's almost embarrassing for me to know that the school I attend did this to students. I can assume and hope in 2016 this act by the administrators will never happen again to students.
If there comes a time when the government or rulers in this country will try to punish people for their faith and choice of religion, then I will absolutely voice my opinion and stand up for my rights in a peaceful non-violently way. Freedom of religion is very important to me.
Kiersten Ehr
Media Law
T-Th 2:00 pm
This was really interesting to read/hear. I find it a little strange that I had previously never heard of the San Marcos Ten. I thought it was really unfair that the students who had been peacefully protesting were expelled and I was shocked a the fact that part of their punishment was bringing down their GPA to a zero. It was clearly stated that the students had been peacefully protesting and it was only a disruption because of the reaction surrounding them. I don't believe they should have been punished for something outside of their control. I believe their rights to freedom of speech and expression were violated and their punishment was blown out of proportion. Any cause that is wrong, unjust and brings physically and emotional harm would motivate me to be part of a protest so long as it is a non violent protest.
Gabriela Perez
T-TH 2 p.m.
Cody Brown
2:00-3:20 T/Th
I'm a little shocked that this is the first time I've heard about these protests and how the university handled the protestors, though I get that since the political culture of the university has shifted significantly and this may not be a high point in our history by today's perspective.
I don't see how the ability to suspend those 10 students is constitutional by the ruling of Tinker v. Des Moines as it was a silent/peaceful protest and there was no threat to national security or a clear and present danger.
I would take part in a protest if it was for something I really stood for. And I'm just going to put this out there, but I would protest with the Black Lives Matters movement if there wasn't such a negative connotation behind it that makes it such a polarizing issue. Police brutality is a real issue and I've heard it from many of my peers, but generalizing all police as being racist, guns a-blazing pigs is the equivalent of marginalizing any group of individuals and it simply isn't true. Police are here to serve and protect and unfortunately a few bad apples have seemed to have set the stage.
Hannah Bennett, 2 pm
After watching the Free Speech at Texas State University YouTube video, I was astonished to hear that University Star editor, Bill Cunningham, lost his job for covering the protest back in 1969. The interviewer specifically points out to Cunningham the fact that South West Texas State was, and still stands, as a public campus. Cunningham laughed at the comment. As part of student media outlet on campus, KTSW-FM 89.9, I can't imagine the frustration Cunningham must have encountered from losing his job when he should be protected by his First Amendment right, freedom of the press.
The NPR interview on the San Marcos Ten was just as jaw dropping. To have been expelled from school for an entire year under the school's very vague argument, "It could have provoked a disruption," must have been absolutely blood boiling. The interviewer asked if he foresaw the possibility of a future protest on Texas State's campus concerning the current war, in which the answer was obviously, yes. Especially considering the chaos going on after the 9/11 attack.
Fortunately, I was able to take part in a protest on campus last Fall, Million Student March. I originally joined the march to cover the event for class, in which I was doing a report on Texas State's political group, Bobcats for Bernie. I met the other participating students at Old Main with a camera around my neck, but as we made our way to the president's lawn demanding the right of free education, I found myself leaving with a picket in my hand. The energy withheld in a bunch of radical students marching through campus is riveting, I would highly reccomend it to anyone that holds a passion for anything.
Madeline B.
Tues/Thurs 2PM
I thought all of this was very interesting and I was shocked to hear their punishment and how SWT treated the SM10. It just shows how much things have changed here at the university.
As for me participating in a protest, if it was something I felt strongly about then I would definitely do it. I am all for standing up for what I believe in.
Aly Crowley
TR 2-3:20
My first reaction was, "Woah, Texas State has been WOKE for at least the past 60 years." "Woke," referencing that our student body is socially aware about issues the country is facing while being connect through support to stop the injustice.
The fact that student's would put their degree or "future" on the line for the sake of expressing a view point that in fact affects everyone's future, to me is actually a selfless act. I love being from a school that hosts "die in"s and other call to actions through pure assembly. Sometimes the strongest messages take no words.
Elianne Candelario
TR 2p.m.
Watching the video report and listening to the NPR interview, I am astonished as to how conservative this school once was. Frankly, I would not have been a happy student attending Texas State in that time. The school has completely transformed into a liberal environment where students can express their opinions and ideas on controversial topics going on in the world. Although, there are certain areas on campus specifically dedicated for free speech and protest, at least we have that! An issue I would willingly protest for is the Black Lives Matter issue as well as immigration reform issues. Both hold significant meaning to me and I believe both are issues that are affecting our society in a negative way day in and day out which is why I would utilize my 1st amendment rights to speak out on both.
Stephanie Williams
TR 2 p.m.
I must admit, like many others who have commented, I was completely unaware of the history behind the Free Speech area on the quad. After watching the video and listening to the NPR broadcast, it's disappointing to know that the administration of Texas State University once expelled students for practicing their constitutional rights. I understand 1969 was a different time with more conservative ideologies, however, it doesn't make what the students did wrong and doesn't make the university right. Texas State as a public university, and like all universities, is meant to educate students. Meaning encouraging them to analyze, think freely and make informed decisions for themselves. The San Marcos 10 are proof that the university went against the standards of education and failed the the student body that it is meant to serve.
There are defiantly a few social issues that I feel very strongly about. But if there is ever any issue that I felt passionate enough about to take a stand for or agianst, and I wasn't doing it just to pick a fight, then I hope that I have enough courage to do so as the San Marcos 10 did. Even if I were to face punishment.
Kyle Kloza
T/H 11a.m.
Without doing any extra thinking, my initial gut feeling towards the video was that the ten were very clearly denied rights. I found that my opinion stuck with me even after considering that the decision and consequences stood. Maybe it was just that the video portrayed the review of the decision in such a curt fashion, but it struck me as odd that the decision to crucify the students' college careers was reached at all. It also seemed to me like this wasn't a special case with any sort of unusual parameters. The students looked like they were clearly exercising at least two of their first amendment rights in a textbook fashion.
That being said, as a practical and not too emotional person, I'd have a hard time justifying standing up for something to that extent unless it directly affected me, even if I vehemently believed that I was standing up for the right thing. There are a ton of noble protests that support great causes, but I really can't see myself taking part in any of them unless I could see an immediate beneficial result or positive effect of my actions.
Carla S. 2 p.m.
I was surprised with the action that the university took to stop the protests. As we learned in class that expelling the students violated their first amendment rights.
I think, right now, if there was a large protest around me that involved immigration reform that I would be motivated to take part in the protest. As I have family and family friends that are affected by the immigration system, it hits very close to home.
Madelyn Byers
11 am
The contrast between how the "San Marcos Ten" were treated and how I believed the same situation would be handled today is drastic. While it is surprising that it was handled that way by the University, I think the true injustice is that it was upheld in court even though it explicitly violated their right to protest. The Vietnam war was very controversial subject matter at this time and I believe the University acted unfairly out of fear. I have seen so many people by the Stallion screaming vulgar and offensive things in my time on campus and its crazy that a silent and peaceful protest was reacted to relatively not long ago.
I think the right protest is a very important thing to exercise and protect. I would feel very inclined to protest personally by any violation of rights regarding women's equality, rights to healthcare, etc.
I've gone to Texas State for three years and I'm surprised that I had not heard of the San Marcos 10. I'm not surprised by the outcome of the situation though. Based on what we have discussed in class, it's typical for schools to get their way and the students are able to be punished. The court cases we have discussed make it clear schools have the ability to limit some free speech. I personally feel that the students shouldn't have been expelled for standing up for something they believed in but the court isn't always in favor of personal opinions.
Luckily nothing like this has happened recently because with how fast news travel through the media it would become a very big deal. The stallions is a place where students feel free to talk and I think it’s great that we have such a space to do it.
TTh 2pm
Davren M.
I was shocked to hear about the San Marcos 10. I think that Texas State is one of the more progressive schools today as far as support of protest and free speech that I'm amazed that such action was taken against protesters not too long ago. I think that Bayless brings up a still very relevant ideology that some people today still have which is, "America love it or leave it." I believe that it is that kind of thinking that stifles social progress in our country. I think that the San Marcos ten bring up issues that are still prevalent today, and are a very interesting aspect of Texas State's history.
Brianna Evans
T/R @11
I did not know about the San Marcos 10 before watching the video. Hearing that they expelled students, dropped their GPAs and college credit seems like excessive force. The protest was itself was not disruptive, but as we see on campus today the people who pass by and interact with the protest can get rowdy. But even so, I don’t think they should have been punished to that extent or for other people's actions. They went through a series of SWT faculty, staff and TSUS Board of Regents and I find it interesting that during their hearings no admin tried to speak out for them or take a second thought about the punishment.
I’ve never been moved enough by an issue to feel the need to protest, but we’ve recently had protests on campus and I’m glad that the administration recognizes the students’ rights and freedom to peacefully protest.
-Tiffany Y., 11am
This was my first time hearing about the San Marcos 10 and I honestly feel so proud of them. Many students backed out after threats from the school, but they stuck around and fought for something they felt strongly about. The punishment that these students received was definitely unconstitutional because they should have been guaranteed the right to peacefully assemble. There was no sign that the students were trying to incite violence or create a hostile environment, therefore this assembly was perfectly lega. If the school claimed that the issue didn't lie with the protestors, but rather with the onlookers, then they were not fulfilling the intent of the first amendment and should have disciplined anyone disturbing the peace if that was the issue.
If definitely support those who protest for great causes. I think it brings great awareness and attention to the matter. If I were to protest for anything right now, it would be for the modern civil rights movement. I have never comprehended the hate of people based on their race.
Emily S. TR 11:00 am
Expulsion, while harsh, would not have been an uncommon response to what would have been seen as dirty hippies ruining Democracy, especially in 1969. People at the time would have called such protests "treason." The decision of the court, while likely unconstitutional, wouldn't have been challenged, because it was 1969, and nobody cared about young people, especially hippies.
Andrea Bolivar 2 pm class
I was surprised to hear about the San Marcos ten, surprisingly no other class has ever commented about this previous event in San Marcos. Texas State, in the present, allows students to express their first amendment rights in a very liberal way, I mean, we all have heard about the woman who allowed students to throw food at her. I'm surprised that such a "free speech liberal" university would expel students for having a peaceful protests, which according to our first amendment we are allow to because it was not disturbing the peace and it was not a threat to national security nor to the election process.
Faith Piveral 11am TR Class:
I was not at all informed about the San Marcos 10 and, even though I have been here for four years, no one has ever mentioned it to me as being part of the school's history. The punishment that was given to the 10 students was cruel and unnecessary. I admire them for holding their ground in something they are passionate about. Dropping their GPA to 0.0 is excessive as well, how could they even do that? What also surprised me about the case was during the trial there was no jury, just a judge. It makes me wonder if they appealed, how the outcome would be? If this case was taken to court today, a university would be very unlikely to win this.
The story of the San Marcos 10 is very surprising to me. I have never heard this story before and the fact that the video said that the student's GPAs were reduced to zero and they received no credit for any of their time in school is unfair and extremely harsh in my opinion. The students were quiet, peaceful, and were not disruptive to other students and should have been allowed to exercise their right to freedom of speech. I don't think that this is the way a protest would be handled at Texas State today and I think we have come a long way since 1969 (although there is always room for more growth). I think it's awesome that those students stood by what they believed in and didn't back down in the face of harsh punishment. While I am not a big protester, I fully support my peers right to protest and I support their opinions even if they happen to not match my own opinion.
Malyssa Gandy Mathews
2 p.m.
Summer Gilbert
11am
After listening to the stories of the San Marcos 10, I am surprised they were treated the way they were since it was a silent protest.... As a senior on campus, I've seen hundreds of people who are yelling or handing out vulgar handouts in the Quad by those exact stallions and no one seems to think anything of it now because it's "normal." I love that our campus has that spot to hold these important subject matters, but if people were expelled for being quiet back then (kind of understandable due to the time period and politics that were going on then) it would be interesting to see what would happen to the current day protestors with the 1969 mentality of the Dean of Students... Hmmm.
Keren A. 2 pm.
I am so surprised by this, not only that these students were denied their 1st amendment right to a peaceful protest but especially the fact that Texas State may still have rules that violate student rights. Both reports are very informative and objective, I think they provide a clear view on what happened to the students after the protest. It is also surprising that one of the students eventually was able to return to Texas State but was not allowed to cross the stage; its curious that he would come back to a school that had denied his rights in the past.
This was my first time hearing about the San Marcos 10. After learning about Tinker v Des Moines, I wasn't shocked to that the school threatened the students that would participate in the non-violent protest at this time. What I did find shocking was that the students were expelled and their GPA dropped to zero. I feel that was a very drastic concequence for students that are peacefully protesting. I also think it isn't fair for them to be expelled because unlike high school and middle school, those students had to pay for their education so if anything they have to right to say or protest whatever they want just as long as it isn't distrcting the education process.
Nadia Johnson
2:00PM T/TH
Evan B T/Th 2:00 p.m.
I have heard of the San Marcos 10 before, my uncle went to Southwest Texas during this protest and he told me this story before I came to this campus. He recalled it being one of the biggest events he witnessed during his time here in San Marcos.
The Stallions are recognized as a place where free speech is advocated, I had no idea that there was a time where this space could be violated in such a way; Furthermore, the fact that Texas State still has a yellow light stance on the area is a problem. College is a time of expression and self exploration. Expression should be experimented with at this place, and should be a place where positive discussion can be sparked. The pettiness of the school revoking college credit and placing grade point averages to zero is absurd.
I think if this case was brought to trial today the school would be lose the case but on the other hand would the court uphold the Tinker decision? Food for thought, thanks Dr. Martinez
It's bizarre to think of a time when free speech wouldn't be tolerated at the Stallions considering the amount of people that go there to speak now.
As disappointed as I am in the ruling on the case of the San Marcos Ten, I can understand a little bit why the ruling came out how it did. Considering the charges and how it was decided by a judge, it sounds like a civil case. Considering a civil case doesn't require a near absolute decision as to whether the defendants are guilty or not, I can understand why the suspension was upheld considering the charges were about disrupting the school environment, if my understanding is correct. However, considering the ruling was only decided by a single person, I could also see how there could be a bit of bias in ruling on the case, especially in a small town like San Marcos where sometimes the community has a greater impact upon the representation of people.
I would think now that the ruling might be different considering what I believe to be more of a tolerance for such things, but it would be interesting to see how it turns out all the same. I feel like there could be similar situations now with everything going on with the Black Lives Matter movement. As much as I would hope that protesters wouldn't be threatened with suspension for voicing their opinion at a location in favor of free speech, nothing would surprise me, especially after students walked out of a class for a statement on origin of the human species.
It is disappointing to hear that the rights given to us by our founding fathers, the same rights that the government swore to uphold are suppressed by a public state school. I would think that the judges ruling on such matters would follow the very laws and rights they were taught. The matters that students choose to protest should not be decided by the school officials as to best portray their own opinions, but should be of the student bodies opinions as long as they are carried out peacefully. if i felt strongly about something and wished to protest i would, but i would be smart in how i protest so as to keep it on what i am protesting about and not how i am protesting.
Sergey Crismon
Media Law
2PM T-TH
I had never heard of the San Marcos 10 before and was kind of disappointed about how Texas State handled the situation. Although it was a different time, I still think that the university went too far by suspending and expelling the students who took part in a peaceful (silent) protest. Those students got severely punished for using their First Amendment rights just because they didn't follow exact free speech guidelines set by the university.
Personally, it would take a lot for me to take part in a protest. While there are plenty of things going on that I do not agree with and wish that they would stop, I would rather try to find another way to have my voice heard before joining a protest.
Alison B.
11 a.m. class
I wish the video had gone into what sort of policies make Texas State a "yellow light" school. I've heard some vile things walking past the stallions, it's hard to imagine being able to say something that could get you kicked out off campus.
It's always upsetting to hear the kind of "patriotic" response people used to have against Vietnam War protesters. Such an overreaction. It's a shame we didn't nip the military actions in middle east in the bud like Bayless seemed to hope.
Andrew S., 11 AM class.
Andrew C T/TH 2:00 pm
From the cases that we've gone over in class the ruling of the San Marcos 10 is impeading on the first amendment of peaceful assembly, they were sitting quietly with signs. It was cool hearing about the SM 10 I never knew that went down, it's a nice piece of Texas State history.
Environmental subjects can motivate me to protest.
Gustavo T. 11 am class
I found the interview very interesting and similar to lecture in a sense. The students mentioned the arguments for their suspensions, disrupting the educational process. However it seems that these students suffered from the "it sucks to be gitlow" symptom. As the generations change, so do rulings and viewpoints as we've become more and more liberal through the years. These students just happen to be in the wrong decade. They did not disrupt the educational process unlike the brief disruption we had when that one guy walked in looking for the sex ed class. Remember that?
As for me, I respect this students for going through the legal process and the potential consequences that follow. I am not politically active and have never protested but an issue that would lead me to join a protest would be immigrant citizenship. If a student manages to go to college and earn a degree, they have ever right to become citizens as well.
A great listen with great relevancy.
Post a Comment