In light of political protests on the Texas State campus in the past few
years, it’s interesting to note that this is nothing new in San Marcos.
Consider the situation with the San Marcos Ten – ten students at Texas State
University (then called Southwest Texas State University) took part in a
protest against the Vietnam War on campus, but were suspended and expelled from
the university in 1969.
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 these 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 (TTh class, online class or Honors class).
99 comments:
I think it's very interesting that the university claimed that it was justifiable to block the education of the San Marcos 10 simply because their protest had the capacity to cause loud noises and disrupt class. Texas State even recently has arrested students for protesting on campus or organizing in an unapproved forms and I dearly hope that will change. There are many reasons I would personally protest, and have personally protested on this campus, but one element of the Star's video was that some of Texas State's policies are considered "yellow light" policies and are in danger of infringing on students' rights was particularly interesting. I'd be very curious to know what exactly those policies are and precisely how they endanger the liberties of the students.
Abigail B, TTh Honors
It is unfortunate that even a year ago we were dealing with free speech issues at Texas State. Though much has changed, the campus and its administration need to take further action to promote free speech all over campus rather than in one specific area. It is also very hard for me to believe that those 10 students were actually kicked out of school for silently protesting. It is truly amazing the things the government or school administration could get away with 50 years ago. It is also makes me feel disappointed to be a Bobcat and to know that this school has not been truly reformed yet. There are a lot of causes I would protest, and I think if it was going to get me expelled, I would do it anyway and try to fight it in court.
Kaitlin Evans, TTH 12:30 p.m. class
I found it pretty ridiculous that 10 students were actually expelled from school due to their participation in a nonviolent protest. I do not believe that their actions warranted a consequence that severe, and the fact that they were told their protest "might" have provoked a disturbance due to the crowd is a testament to the idea that the students were expelled for their beliefs and not their actions. I understand that the Vietnam War was a sensitive issue at the time, but these students were not in any position to compromise the United State's position in it. I emphasize with these individuals as I am passionate about many issues and would definitely take part in a protest about something I cared about, even if it put aspects of my life at stake. I believe there are some issues worth vehemently expressing your opinion, as change will not come about through being silent or passive.
Valkyrie Mata, TTH 12:30 class
It is upsetting that these 10 students were suspended from the university. It’s especially upsetting that the judged ruled they were a distraction to the educational process. When I walk by the stallion statue on campus and see a protest, it has no effect on my involvement in my classes. I have not participated in any protests on campus however I am interested in getting involved in one. I will most likely participate in a protest about protecting our environment. Climate change is a growing issue and it need to be address by more public officials.
Daniel Richter
TTh class
First of all, I had no idea that the San Marcos 10 existed. Free speech issues are so relevant even now in 2019, and to know that students were expelled for exercising their constitutional rights is so frustrating and absurd. It is even more irritating to me that people were punished for a peaceful protest (which is within our rights), and while I know that the Vietnam protests were sensitive topics the school had no right to discipline those students. Thinking about our recent readings in class, the idea of abstract doctrine and whether or not it could incite violence is very reflected in this example.
-Lauren Jurgemeyer (Honors)
While at The University Star, I was lucky enough to focus on the activism beat. I came in after the anti-Trump mega-protests at the stallions but in time for all the former Student Government President Connor Clegg protests. These protests brought in a variety of topics that were important to folks outside of just campus politics. Because of my role as a journalist, I don't believe I'd take part in protests, even simple small group ones, but I have always said that I'd probably have been one of the ones to burn a draft card back during the time of the San Marcos Ten. Their way of keeping it peaceful while advocating for peace was admirable and something I probably would have taken part in yet also been very impressed by their ability to have the courage to stick it out.
-Geoff Sloan Tues/Thurs Honors
It is disappointing to see the reaction the campus administration had to the Vietnam War protests. What harm were they thinking could come from the protests? Maybe they were comparing the San Marcos protesters with other protests at the time that had become non-peaceful, but the administration still should not have silenced the first amendment rights of the protesters. As a journalism major I would not participate in any kind of protest unless I was old and retired, but still probably not. Only under exceptional circumstances would I protest hahaha.
Christopher Green (TTH Class)
I find it disappointing to see how this university has reacted to peaceful protests in the past, even if it was many years ago. It is especially discouraging because the school has still not been very open minded to protests that happened on this campus in recent years, arresting students and making them disband despite remaining peaceful. I believe everyone should have the right to come together and make their voices heard during times of injustice. While I have never participated in an on-campus protest, I was able to go to a huge anti-Trump protest in New York City following the 2016 national election. The police threatened to arrest people for running in the streets and causing traffic, which is understandable for such a large protest, but something smaller and peaceful on campus should not be treated that way.
-Paola Bakker, online class
Expulsion was to severe of a punishment; especially because it was a non-violent protest. Yes, there were other students causing a ruckus around the protest but shouldn't the ruling be on the people who were actually protesting not the general public around them? It seems that the school just wanted to fix the problem the fastest way and they saw that the only way to do it its get rid of the protest as a whole. I loved what the 10 said that they completely understood and didn't blame other students for leaving the protest after consequences were being threatened. It took a lot of guts just to stay and sit. Which is kinda ridiculous that they couldn't do that without severe threat to their future. But also the protest means so much more now because of it.
Sallie Hildebrand, TTH 12:30 p.m. class
It's upsetting to see/hear about the history of suppression of free speech at Texas State. I wasn't aware that we were a "yellow light" school. Also, after reading all of these Supreme Court cases, I kind of wish the San Marcos 10 case would have made it to the Supreme Court because it would add a very interesting and personal element to our class. I think it's interesting to compare the situation with the San Marcos 10 and how the Dean of Students handled it to how Denise Trauth and other administration handles current protests and free speech/free press issues on campus. There are definitely causes that I would protest for. In 2017, on the anniversary of Trump's inauguration, I participated in an anti-Trump/womens rights protest and march in Austin. Sometimes, I don't think the environment that protests create is desirable for having worthwhile conversations with others about how to change things. However, that is not to say that I disagree with protests or their necessity. I just think in some instances, an alternative method could be more beneficial. I think the Kinder-Morgan Pipeline is also a cause worthy of protesting.
-Kaitlyn B. T/TR honors class
To have expelled these students for their nonviolent protest against the Vietnam War was intense. These students were exercising their right to publicly and peacefully express their opinions and they were kicked out of school for it. There was no disturbance of peace nor was the educational process disrupted. I believe because of the fact that there were multiple students fighting for what they believe in during this era in time aggravated the University and they decided to act quickly to preserve the schools rep. There has been several recent protests and disruption of peace that was way more intense than what was described in the video. There are several reasons and motives that would get me to go out and protest to speak up for what I believe in. Although there are risks and consequences that I face, I believe me fighting and exercising my right to fight is something I would prefer to utilize for something I am passionate about
-William Cleveland T/TH 12:30
I find it very disappointing that the San Marcos Ten were suspended for exercising their right to assemble and protest in a non-violent way about the war. Even though it was a different time back then, and the controversy of the Vietnam war was very intense, I find it ridiculous that Texas State denied these students their rights and were punished. They were not causing harm to anyone, and the fact that the school decided to do this is very concerning. As a student now, I have seen several protests in the quad that have not distracted anyone from their academics and I think that was a sad excuse as to why these students were punished. Although I have not personally been a part of a protest, I would definitely join one for one's concerning women's rights or advocate for social changes like racism that still occur on our campus today. As Texas State is sought out for being one of the most diverse schools, there are definitely still issues with our student body and I would definitely feel compelled to join a protest for a cause like that. I believe everyone has the right to voice their opinion and if done so correctly, should never be denied to speak out or be punished for it.
-Sophie Rose T/TH 12:30 class
After hearing about this for the first time, it is very shocking. It is pretty upsetting to know this took place at a campus I attend. Apart from the lack of freedom given to these students, what upsets me the most is even with legal action justice didn't prevail. I know the legal system isn't always right or just, but for how serious it effects them to not be judged by their peers in a fair trial is just another violation of our rights as Americans. During the Vietnam war, there were many things wrong with how the government dealt with Americans rights. I would definitely protest something I believe to be unjust. If I was alive during the Vietnam war I would have protested it with them. I don't think basic rights should be taken from Americans whether it be something I agree with or not.
Peyton G
HON
It amazes me how the Stallions have been a symbol of free speech for so long, yet, in this case, these 10 students were denied that right. I think that the administration was wrong in expelling the students and dropping their GPA's. Especially the GPA, like come on, what does that have to do with free speech. I think that the more they try to suppress us the more we will speak out ('they' being anyone who attempts to take away people's speech). This only gives fuel to the desire to speak up and put our leaders on blast. It makes sense though. It makes sense that they got in trouble because it was the WAR they were speaking out against. However if the University tried to do that now, that wouldn't fly. I've tried to avoid the quad when I see huge crowds there because it can be hard to go through it and get around people. I've even heard loud chanting from a class room before. But I will never want someone to be expelled for using their rights.
Christopher Gentry
Tuesday and Thursday 12:30 to 1:50
I was not aware that the San Marcos 10 event occurred, but after hearing about it, I'm shocked about the consequences that the students received. The students were peacefully protesting the war, and the school punished the students for doing so. I think that the University expelling students and dropping GPAs was ridiculous when the students were expressing their rights. I feel that the consequences that were received were unjust when it came to the situation. I have been apart of protests before when I feel strongly for an issue, and will continue to do so. Even if I do not agree with what people are protesting for, I support them for deciding to do something about what they believe in rather than staying silent about it.
-Olivia W
Honors
I find this all very interesting, especially since I had never heard about it. I disagree with what the University did to the San Marcos Ten and I think it went against what we have been learning in lecture about free speech. The part that was the most upsetting, in my opinion, was that the students were expelled from the University and their earned credits were taken away. During the NPR broadcast, I found it interesting that the judge ruled based on the noise surrounding the protest - not the noise that the protesters made. Although I disagree with how this played out, I do enjoy the fact that the Stallions on campus have been utilized as a free speech area for so long and that Texas State has kept up with that tradition.
I personally have never been part of a protest before, and I don't think that any event would ever trigger me to be a part of a public one. However, I will never shy away from my opinion if someone asked me about a topic I felt strongly about.
-Allison Jones TTH class
It was really interesting to learn about the San Marcos Ten, because I have never heard of that happening on campus before. I think it is really unfortunate and unfair what happened to them. Based on free speech, the administration acted unfairly. I was even more shocked to learn they were expelled from school, GPAs dropped to zero, and all their credits earned dismissed. I think this punishment was way too harsh for a peaceful protest. That is truly unbelievable. I think Texas State University has come a long way since then, I don't think there will ever be a repeat of those consequences again.
For me, I don't think I would ever take part in a protest unless it was about a topic/situation I was truly passionate about. I think nowadays, protest can turn violent when they are meant to be peaceful, and I personally don't want any kind of involvement in that.
Ashley Hale TTH
Farran M. Media Law MC4301
It seems like a terrible injustice that the ten students were expelled and lost all of their college credits. That is especially harsh if they were third or fourth year students. However they are still talked about today because of the stand they took. Based on what I have learned in this class so far, their first amendment rights were violated. They weren’t disrupting the education process, but the judge in the case ruled that the reaction on campus was. Bill Cunningham, the reporter is absolutely right. In fact it seems to me that schools in general are in a habit of suppressing first amendment rights.
I had no idea the "San Marcos Ten" existed. It's upsetting to know that a university I love so much suspended 10 students that were exercising their 1st Amendment right, especially while doing so SILENTLY. I understand certain protests may cause an uproar, but a silent protest would never cause that kind of damage so the university's statement and the judge's ruling stating that is ridiculous. I'm proud of those 10 students that remained with their protest to fight for what they believe in. I would definitely join a protest of any issue I'm passionate about. It's my right as an American citizen to use my voice, as it was those 10 students right, too.
Hannah Holder, TTH 12:30 p.m.
Before this class I was unaware of the San Marcos Ten, which doesn't surprise me because even in my time here I have heard of some questionable actions made by the university and even the student body. What does surprise me were the strict consequences that those students had to endure. To put so much time and specifically money, into a university and then have everything you worked for stripped away is completely unimaginable and unfair to say the very least. At this point in my college career, being so close, to graduation, I would be devastated if because I wanted to take a stand for my own views and opinions I lost everything that I worked for. So to ask if I would do the same today I would have to say it would have to be something that I am extremely passionate about and truly believe is worth the many years and 10s of thousands of dollars I have given this university because I just do not have the privilege to lose everything and then start back again. I cannot even believe Bayless decided to come back and give the university EVEN MORE of his money and then still wasn't able to walk the stage. I would truly be sick.
Before this class I was unaware of the San Marcos Ten, which doesn't surprise me because even in my time here I have heard of some questionable actions made by the university and even the student body. What does surprise me were the strict consequences that those students had to endure. To put so much time and specifically money, into a university and then have everything you worked for stripped away is completely unimaginable and unfair to say the very least. At this point in my college career, being so close, to graduation, I would be devastated if because I wanted to take a stand for my own views and opinions I lost everything that I worked for. So to ask if I would do the same today I would have to say it would have to be something that I am extremely passionate about and truly believe is worth the many years and 10s of thousands of dollars I have given this university because I just do not have the privilege to lose everything and then start back again. I cannot even believe Bayless decided to come back and give the university EVEN MORE of his money and then still wasn't able to walk the stage. I would truly be sick.
It is a shock to me that, 50 years ago during the Vietnam War 10 students were expelled because of peaceful protest against the war. Although protected by the constitution, students were denied their rights and even face consequences when they decide to stand up for their rights. It also surprises me that even today, Texas State University is considered a yellow light school. I think that every student, staff and faculty member have the right to express their opinion in a peaceful way. Law enforcers and officials involved should abide to the constitution with regards to freedom of speech. They should even support freedom of speech since these are the principles in which the nation was built on.
I think I would participate in any protest that could make a big change in my life, my country, or in the world. I have protested once in my country, Thailand, when there was too much corruption going on within the government.
Sasikarn Somboonsup
Online
So interesting to see how involved the student body was back in 1969 and how it has evolved today. Also interesting to see how there were forced to quit protesting and that being expelled was the consequence along with a lowered GPA to 0.00. It would be difficult to attend a protest in '69 knowing those would be the consequences versus today knowing a very large crowd could easy follow in a protest. Alexandra Cochran T/TH 12:30pm
I had never heard of the San Marcos Ten until now. I think the students were mistreated by the university. They were protesting peacefully, and, goodness, it was their right in the First Amendment to do so. Their punishment was brutal. To be expelled, their GPAs dropped to zero. That sounds like a nightmare to me. I definitely think I would participate in a peaceful protest. Coming together for the greater good for mankind? Sign me up.
Emilee Hall
TTh 12:30
I think it is intriguing that the first amendment is not protected in college. When one leaves high school and hit that "legal" and "free" age of eighteen, they gain a sense of freedom to take part politically, without any restrictions from people around. But then, restricting and stripping away those rights is appalling. The reasoning of the court was unacceptable in my opinion because they claimed that the protest itself was peaceful and caused no disruption, but it was the audience that was a disturbance. Regardless, it was the San Marcos 10 who were expelled. This protest caused no immediate and imminent danger, therefore, they should not be held accountable. Also, disregarding their education for protesting peacefully in a designated free speech zone assigned by the university is absurd. Threatening someone to condemn their speech is frustrating, especially knowing on what bases the foundation of the country stands on. This does make me wonder about other universities and if they too are restricting constitutional rights and why. It is disheartening and discouraging because there are countries who have to fight for their freedoms, but here they exercise their rights only to realize that they hardly even had one. I have briefly participated in some protest, but my parents always feared that since they don't believe it is safe, and there are times I've ignored their concerns because I understood there was freedom of speech. however, after reading this, undoubtedly, my willingness to protest is affected.
Manal M.
TTh Honors class
I cannot believe that the school took such a harsh action upon those students! And I cannot believe that those 10 students gave up their education in order to stand up for their rights and what they believed in. And they lost their court case! If I was in their shoes, I probably would not have stayed when they were threatening to take away their credits and expulsion. My Dad probably would have killed me. Nowadays though, I do not think TXST could get away with doing what they did a long time ago.
It is also interesting to see that Donald Trump just released an Executive Order to allow free speech on college campuses and threatening to take away funding if they do not follow.
Briana Moses - online class
I think it's actually crazy that TXST went so far as to expel these students. I think if they were to expel them nowadays, it would look horrible and they would get a ton of backlash. Although, I don't think they'd ever expel students in 2019 for protesting considering it's basically all young people do. The protest caused no danger, it was just a practice of the first amendment, so I don't really understand why they got expelled. I think it's so awesome that these students stood up for what they believe in, even knowing the consequences.
Taylor Parks - online class
I think those 10 students are pretty bad ass for sticking to their beliefs in the face of high consequence. The Vietnam War was so controversial and the draft to condemning that I respect and understand why they protested.
I personally have attended protests and will continue to do so for causes such as women's rights, LGBTQ rights, basically the fight for equality in America. In my opinion, protests are important even if they don't end with a tangible change immediately. Just having a gathering of people expressing their opinion is powerful because it shows that people are passionate and demand change when perhaps their voices haven't been heard in more "conventional" ways.
- Arielle R., TTH 12:30p.m.
My reaction to the group of ten students being expelled for peacefully protesting the Vietnam War on campus is bothered and appalled. I find the fact that there were so many school administrative proceedings and a judge ruling yet every single hearing found the protestors guilty. What’s most crazy to me is even though it was stated that the students involved weren’t the ones actually “interfering with the free flow education”, it was rather the discussion that followed that caused disruption, they were still expelled. This makes me question the motives of Texas State Administration. I’m proud of the protestors for being so courageous when it came to standing up for what they believed in, and what I consider right. It has been a proven fact that pacifistic means do not catalyze change as well as force, but when faced with doing nothing vs. something, anything is always better than nothing. I have been involved in protests including the National School Walk Out for Gun Safety, and the Women’s March a few years ago. I believe the only way to create change is to use your voice, and your power and even though these rights are supposedly protected by the first and fourteenth amendment, it’s not always easy as we can see. I believe that if I went to Texas State at the time of this incident, I would hopefully being protesting the war right along with the San Marcos Ten.
Marybeth Glasheen, TTh Honors
I thought it was very interesting that protests of this nature where taking place on our campus at the same time that such protests where a national issue. This situation seems very similar to Tinker vs. Des Moines where the courts ruled in favor of the students. The caveat of course being that students where not permitted to protest in anyway that would disrupt the educational environment. Perhaps this is where the issue arose, as it sounds like these students where pretty vocal about their views, but I thought it was interesting that both of these events occurred in 1969, but had very different outcomes for the students involved. In terms of what would actually make me protest, it would have to be something immediately threatening my livelihood or security, otherwise I would do my protesting at the ballot. And while sometimes the results are disappointing for me, such as the last election cycle, I think it is also important to respect the will of the majority. Otherwise, the system doesn't work.
Clayton S, TTh
I believe to an extent Texas State had a right to punish the 10 for disrupting classes and the learning environment. As we have discussed in class there are certain restrictions on free speech on campus to purposely protect the learning environment for all students. I do not believe expelling the students was the best approach to handle this situation, I think they should have been given a specific location where they could be as loud as they pleased. I think I would protest for certain social and political causes that are currently taking place in our society.
Breann Barrow T-Th 12:30-1:50pm
I think that the San Marcos 10 were true heroes and that the university should be ashamed of their actions, and try to pay reparations to the students. I think the state of free speech on campus at Texas State today however is great. I see lots of people at the quad every day protesting or advocating for their causes, and although I don't agree with many of these groups, I support their right to protest. As for myself, I would be willing to be part of a protest protecting the environment, like stopping fracking within our state.
Lucus Newman
TTH Class
I think it was wrong that the Texas State 10 got expelled and their GPA dropped to a 0. They should have been protected by the first amendment because they were not causing any physical harm to anyone. I agree that the only people who violated the first amendment was the Administrators because they were not giving the students the right to assemble and speak. There is much reason to protest and I would protest because typically if you feel like you need to speak up on what you believe is right then do so. However, I also believe ignoring a protest and keep walking is the best way to avoid conflict with others and it's better to not get involved in situations like that but, that is just my opinion. If I was to protest it would be over Greek Life on campus because that is something that people tend to be very negative toward and a lot of people do not understand the wonderful things greek life helps within our community and surrounding communities.
Chandler Davis TTH 12:30-1:50 p.m.
I think it was truly disappointing that our school has in the past expelled students for having a peaceful protest. This violated their first amendment right and I'm appalled that the judge had the verdict against them. I understand that the dean wanted approval, but even then I don't believe anyone should have to give you the approval to protest peacefully even if it was an unpopular protest to the administration. I believe that these students protesting and exercising their first amendment right has paved a way for students now and even in the future. The San Marcos 10 might have lost their court case, but they have shown a perfect example of bravery and integrity that students can look up to. I have in the past, took part in a protest about giving rights to the LBGT community to get married. I don't agree that the government can tell you who you can and cannot marry. That was definitely a political protest that eventually won its long battle but still has a lot to overcome. I have protested against big industries who have damaged our seas, so that would be an environmental protest I have participated in. I will forever exercise my first amendment right to protest to speak up for what I believe is right. The San Marcos 10 is an inspirational story that I keep in mind while protesting on campus. They might not have won the battle, but I believe they have won the war in free speech and the right to protest peacefully on campus.
- Jacqueline D TTH class 12:30pm-1:50pm
I do not understand the University's thinking. How is a non-violent protest going to disrupt school? College is the place to explore new ideas and express new thoughts. I see no wrong in the San Marcos 10's actions. That was a time of tension and anger; the students did something that was safe and respectful while still getting their issue heard. I do believe that I would protest immigration reform. I have connections within my family that deal with injustice everyday.
Lydia C TTh 12:30 PM
It was pretty shocking to learn about this happening in the history of my school. University is supposed to be a place where young adults are exposed to many different ideas and officials should encourage us to listen to each other and think for ourselves. The punishment was extreme but unfortunately common on college campuses of the time. Even today, when there's a controversial message on the quad or newspaper article, university officials try to snuff them out instead of fostering an open environment. The only protest I've been a part of was the first big woman's march in Austin but I would certainly like to be more active.
Troy V
TTh Class
I'm surprised that the San Marcos Ten became history, as if they did something unforgivable to the point where they got suspended and their GPA was dropped to nothing. It's like they're GPA meant nothing and the officials threw it away. For my personal experience, I've never been in a situation to protest for my rights and I don't think I want to. I'm more silent when it comes to things like that, as compared to some people who are outspoken. I usually don't have a problem with people protesting on campus, as long as they're not violent towards me or others. My only thought is it could be in a better location rather than in the middle of the campus where people are just trying to get to class. Thanks for listening.
Megan W
TTh Class
I never realized that we had a Vietnam protest at Texas State. In the NPR audio it states that they were not disrupting or causing any problems, so I don't understand why the university took such harsh repercussions against these 10. As a student I would expect the University to support differing ideas. I don't believe I would have participated with knowing I was going to be suspended. However, if I had already been to Vietnam like the man in the NPR audio I would definitely have a different outlook.
Alexander Gaskill
TTH Class
I wish I could say that I am surprised this happened on campus, but giving the time, I am not. It is annoying to think that even though it was peaceful, they were suspended from a school that they were paying for. One of the 10, Annie, didn't get her bachelors until decades later which is upsetting that the school had something to do with that. Another one of the 10, David, did not even get to walk! My grandpa talks about the war and all the things that were happening around that time and lets just say that i'm glad I was not there. I feel awful for those student and I hope our university remembers this and learns from it.
Macy S.
TTH Class
I personally think it is extremely unfair that the students got such severe consequences after expressing their first amendment rights. They peacefully protested and were not inciting violence. Therefore, I believe the university’s treatment to them was an overreaction that was far too harsh. It’s slightly alarming for me to think that Texas State has “yellow light” policies, as I assumed that there was no way I could suffer any consequences at a public campus for expressing myself in a way such as peacefully protesting. It’s definitely frustrating to think that freedom of speech is supposed to be a basic right to us as Americans, but time and time again these rights are infringed upon. If an issue was something I really cared about, I would definitely participate in a protest.
Melody M., TTH 12:30 class
Like many other people in this thread, I think it is extremely unfair that the San Marcos 10 were expelled because they were protesting the Vietnam War. To me, it seems like something the school would be supporting. A group of students taking a stand for what they believe in without the use of violence or inciting hate should be something that TXST takes pride in. With that in mind, it makes the suspension of these students that much more disappointing. It is obliviously an overreaction and I think that Texas State did that intentionally in order to send a message to other students at the time. I also think it is important to commend the students who stood tall despite knowing the consequences of doing so. I don't think I could do the same thing if I knew I was going to be kicked out of school. However, there are many issues going on today that would make me join a protest if one was organized on campus.
Ralph D. TTH 12:30 class
It's a shame that Texas State University has such a history of seemingly only persecute progressive student protest but for some reason refuses to regulate or persecute the antagonistic religious protesters that come to the stallions sporadically or even the groups/individuals that post and spread hateful rhetoric and nazi propaganda around campus. Even after the protests from last year, students-- to this day-- are dealing with legal trials and arrests that resulted from last year's protest, with zero protections or defense from the university or Trauth. The reaction to the San Marcos Ten & last year's protest versus the reaction to the hateful religious groups and nazis that come to campus could make one think that Texas State University has a bias toward certain opinions and expressions. Anyways, there are several causes that I would protest for and have protested for; one of them being the protests that took place at TXST last year that called for the hiring of an immigration attorney, the hiring of more faculty/staff of color, a black studies minor, the impeachment of the student body president, etc.
Akosua A. Honors Class
It is particularly alarming to know that this kind of injustice happened on our campus not too long ago in the grand scheme of time. The San Marcos 10 could be any one of us if our freedoms are infringed upon at any point. This particularly harsh punishment isn't unheard of in this time period, either. When high school kids were protesting in solidarity with the Parkland survivors, some of them were faced with suspensions and punishments as well. Schools are not the free speech havens that we think that they are.
As for an issue that would motivate me to protest, I'd most likely involve myself with the protection of women's rights to choose how they handle their pregnancy.
Kristofer F
TTH Class
The San Marcos 10 incident is something that I found very disheartening but unfortunately not surprising. In this time period and even now, it was very taboo to say something against war in a conservative place like San Marcos, TX in 1969. I am really disappointed that the university took away all of the student's credits and GPAs. It really seems excessive in a peaceful protest situation.
While I have never actively participated in a protest, I do pay careful attention to what is going on every month or so in the quad. While sometimes people that I wholeheartedly disagree with come and speak, such as the anti-abortion religious groups who put up anatomically incorrect photos just to scare people, I think that is a price to be paid so that every group may speak freely, such as the title of our class blog.
Summer Hawkins- TTH 12:30
In my opinion i think it was unfair to expel the students, they were only protesting the Vietnam War, which they have the right to do so. It is their First Amendment right to do so, which makes it disappointing that Texas State would feel the need to do this. I think Texas State was trying to send a message to the other students, that way no one else would get the idea of protesting, even though this was a peaceful protest. I think this is very unfortunate for the students as well, because for some it messed up them getting their bachelors and prolonged degrees for others. Situations such as these makes it difficult for me to want to stand up for what I believe in, even if it is peaceful.
Miles W. TTH 12:30 Class
Free speech is constantly under scrutiny in the U.S. although we wish we could keep these issues away from our places of education, it is inevitable. The San Marcos ten formed a protest that the university deemed to be a noise complaint. Albeit that education comes first on a school campus, it is important to exercise our right to free speech. We should look into these “yellow light” policies with more scrutiny and make sure that our rights are not being infringed upon. I will always protest for the rights of our freedoms, but not at the cost of education for others. We must protest respectfully and righteously.
Matt hawkins TTH 12:30
It's sad to know that our school infringed on students rights so heavily in the past. Our campus is so diverse yet we still have white supremacist propaganda being posted almost every semester recently. I feel like the school took more action against these peaceful protesters than they have against these hate crimes. That being said, I have talked to many protestors out by the stallion statue and everyone has been able to voice their ideas freely, without hassle from the university. Even so, there are recent protests that I feel have been silenced for the sake of making money instead of recognizing a cause. For example, NFL players can now be fined if they take a knee during the national anthem in protest. I feel that is a symbolic gesture that should be protected by the first amendment no matter what, but because the teams are owned privately the owner has the power to silence their voice? It is a terrible reality. That being said, I believe it is still worth the risk to try to find another way to peacefully protest!
Matilda Herrera
TTH 12:30
This is the first that I'm hearing of the San Marcos 10 and I know things "were different" back then, but it's disappointing to know that the students were suspended by the university. The recording says that they weren't being distracting and they didn't cause any physical harm to those around them so I don't really see why they were giving the punishments that they were given. Hurting their GPA's was completely wrong as their actions had nothing to do with their past and current grades.
There are only a handful of causes that I would partake in a protest for. One of those causes is action for preventing climate change. Another is the prevention of infringement on women's rights.
Skyler V TTh
Araceli M.
TTh 12:30
I was surprised after listening to the interview. Mainly because I honestly can’t imagine a version of Texas State where students would get expelled or suspended for their protest and beliefs. But, it was a different time, and I’m sure it was more conservative than it is now. But still surprising to find this out. I hadn’t heard of the San Marcos Ten before now, so to hear and see this it made me curious to dig further into the story and research it. I have never been a part of any of the protests here on campus, but I do like to come watch everyone occasionally when there is a protest. Like when Trump was elected, I was watching everyone arguing, the PD breaking up a couple of fights. I even got a text message from my uncle who works law enforcement, tell me to leave because that things can escalate quickly and he didn’t want me to be there if and when it happened.
From what I have learned in class, I feel like these ten students' first amendment rights were infringed. It is sad that they were expelled all for assembling peacefully which is part of the first amendment. I think if it came down to an issue that would affect me or someone I know personally, I would stand up and protest. Honestly I'm not sure if I would have stayed like the ten students did just because I am so close to graduating and would not have wanted it to all go to waste. But then again there is the conflict of this issue is bigger than me and my degree so you have to choose which is more important to you at that moment. I do think Texas State has gotten a little better but with the whole issue with the article "Your DNA is an abomination" I think Texas State took a step back in the free speech category.
Genaro Perez TTh
Jason E.
TTH 12:30
I am not one for protesting, but I do think it is very important to stick to what you think is right. Yet, you also should probably know the law if you are going to be doing something drastic. You could be in the right 100% of the time but you have to still play smart if you're in the game. Truthfully, I just know law because I've had to deal with the law for years. Sometimes it's just best to sit back and watch. Or maybe just write a letter and send it to the proper complaint box. A lot of this kids think they have too many rights sometimes or maybe I am just getting older and wiser. Im sure the 10 didn't do anything too "off the wall" after the ordeal. I'm out of the loop for these kind of things. I'd rather be lost in a mountains or anywhere where you can see all the stars in the Milky Way. But! Stick to what your heart desires.
Jaelyn A., TTh class:
I think that it's really ridiculous that these students were expelled for protesting, especially considering that it was a peaceful protest. It was a blatant violation of these student's First Amendment rights. The protest was in a public institution and they weren't disrupting any classes, so this punishment was baseless, and content-based. I have previously participated in protests on campus, and if there was an issue prominent enough motivating me, then I would likely do so again, and I would hope that the university would refrain from hitting me with the same BS punishments as the San Marcos Ten were.
Honestly I wasn't as shocked as I thought I would be when researching the Texas State 10, while it is sad it just goes to show the level of preference Texas State has of supporting anti-progressive movements on campus. I consider myself independent politically, and am very disappointed when I see these uber religious protestors screaming how we are, "all going to hell" then read stories in our university's history where students attempting to make the world actually better (PEACEFULLY) were persecuted. While I am not the type to go out and protest just any cause, as I believe there are other ways or moving forward, I won't disrespect those who choose to go out and spread word. Just don't be foolish about it, and don't just go out and support causes because its "trendy", have some substance to your being, instead of just being another floating fish in the sea of trends. I see so many people online nowadays just going to protests to excuse rowdy behavior. If you truly care about the cause you are peacefully protesting for you will actually care about how you are perceived and realize that you now represent a majority and need to conduct yourself accordingly. Study the history, learn the facts, don't jump on the bandwagon without educating yourself first, and don't act stupid. Make your protests something the suffragettes and freedom walkers would have been proud of. Don't give progressive thinkers a bad name.
RR Mendoza TTH 12:30
The Vietnam war was hard for many and the right to protest it peacefully is protected by the first amendment. After watching the video I think the school reacted poorly to a large group of young adults speaking their mind. I have seen plenty of physically bad protest while here at Texas State campus. The election was proof of students overstepping their rights on campus by making direct threats and becoming violent. The right to assemble peacefully shows that Texas State overreacted and just didn't think of an alternative to their plan. After listening to the podcast I think the school needs to to have a committee that decides punishments and a time frame to think before acting. I know that many years ago our opinions and knowledge of the war was different but when handling students it is not a good idea to create even more of a reason for students to hate the University.
Chelsea Chase
(T/Th 12:30)
It was difficult for many citizens to protest peacefully despite being protected by the first amendment. After watching the video I believe the school interpreted the reactions of the students with unnecessary authority. In my own experience, I have witnessed several student-led protests on campus, specifically at the stallion statue. The right to assemble in a peaceful manner should not be destroyed on the "basis of disrupting classes". I believe the Texas State University overreacted to the expression of free speech by students and displayed authority as a reaction of fear of the students evolving the protest into a violent riot. I believe the university needs to take responsibility in addressing the actual freedom's we possess as students and how limited our rights to free speech are.
Jacob Blackmon
T/Th 12:30-1:50
I find it crazy that these people were suspended from school entirely because of a silent protest by the horses. Im confused as to why the university says that that is a designated area to peacefully protest, but then have the students arrested for doing so. It is very hypocritical of Texas state to say that we are a diverse university with an ability to express ourselves, but we are not entirely protected. The vietnam war was a very important event in the united state so i understand why the students felt so strongly to protest, and if there was an event occurring where im affected or people close to me are affected i would be open to protesting.
Chloe WIllis TTh
I was surprised that the San Marcos 10 got expelled for a year, i was even more surprised that their GPA's also were to drop to a score of zero. I was thinking laying out a year of school could be manageable for graduation, but dropping the GPA's to a zero really stuck it to them. I feel like the San Marcos 10 were wrongfully punished for their expression of free speech. No direct disruption or incitement of violence or chaos resulted, their protest was peaceful. The universities stance on the general hoo-raw happening around the protesters, not the protesters themselves, was giving the possibility of disruption to occur was just an easy way out to carry out the silencing of ideals that they they didn't particular see eye-to-eye with. It was interesting that the school made a point to warn the protesters a day before the protest was to be carried out that disciplinary actions were likely to result. However, Southwest Texas State didn't disclose what "disciplinary action" actually entailed. That being said, it really shows how seriously the San Marcos 10 felt about the military draft and the Vietnam War. Sticking to their guns was pretty noble in my eyes. I myself have never participated in a protest of any sort, maybe I've simply just been keeping my head down and not looking up. I feel that is a situation as serious as Vietnam were to arise that directly effected my well-being and the well-being of my loved ones, I would feel necessary to exercise my First Amendment rights.
Jacob Salois T/TH 12:30-1:50 Class
I really feel robbed, I had no idea the "San Marcos 10" were even a thing. We've been covering so many anti-Vietnam war protest cases in class. It's crazy there was an example of this so close to home. After covering freedom of speech and learning more about the results of other similar cases, I just can't help but feel angered. The fact that they were told one thing and then suspended/expelled for literally sitting peacefully is not okay. It just goes to show how much I take for granted everyday, I would peacefully protest now AND then. These 10, and countless others paved the way for my generation and future generations to come. The causes are simply political. The government was so against any form of criticism from the war, and countless cases further prove my claim. Today, I would protest environmental subjects. I have a really strong love for the planet, and think theres a lot that we can do to better the world.
Jake Norrie
T/TH 12:30
I think that what happened to the San Marcos is terrible, but when it comes to content neutral things I think that it couldn't have ended in any other way. Because that the institution can make the rules and you sign off on them when you become a student, the dean of students had to follow the rules. Are they exercising their first amendment rights? yes. But that doesn't mean that it applies to them in that context. I've never really been one to get into politics, but the more I learn about what goes into laws and protesting the more I feel like I could make an impact. For me, I could easily protest anything having to do with climate change. It's just to important to ignore.
Thomas Vazquez
T/TH 12:30
I believe that the San Marcos 10 were 100 percent justified in their protests and freedom of speech. Because of what I have learned in this class about certain laws over freedom of speech, even dating back to the Vietnam War, the students should not have been suspended for exercising their rights if they weren't disrupting education. While they were told that there would be consequences to their actions, they did not realize to what extent. And it is crazy to know that they were "peacefully protesting" when I have seen students and even adults on the Texas State campus loudly protesting and almost harassing students who try to calmly communicate their own opinions. However, times are very different than they were during the San Marcos 10 years, especially in the heat of a war that U.S. citizens were already suspicious about. I don't think that Texas State would ever do anything like this now that freedom of speech and opinions are important to this campus.
I have actually never protested, but I do enjoy standing by the horse statues after my classes and listening to all our students have to say. And I give them props for standing up for themselves and what they believe in on a campus this size.
Helena Van Maren
T/TH 12:30
It's bittersweet to learn about the stifling of free speech in Texas State University's history. It's horrible, but I'm glad it didn't start when students began protesting racism and inequality on campus. I think that the San Marcos 10 never should've been expelled or punished at all. In fact, I don't think they should have been warned not to protest in the first place. I understand the process, I just don't understand the point of learning about political science, history or anything at all if you can't use it to change oppressive or harmful trends in our nation's timeline? The lesson I've learned from the disappointing way most free speech cases have ended is just to never go against the government or the administration. Regardless of the "diverse" agenda TXST administration pushes to prospective students, the San Marcos 10 as well as the students arrested at the LBJ sit in are a perfect example of why this University is not a place to share opinions and ideas. Unless you are spreading hate speech or white supremacy of course, that is protected. That being said, I wish I could protest certain inequalities but out of fear, I never will.
Rayan Harris TTH 12:30
After watching the video by the University Star and listening to the podcast on NPR, I feel both completely disappointed and proud to be a student here at Texas State. It's disgusting to me that the rights guaranteed to these students by the Constitution (the rights to protest and to assemble) were illegally stripped from them on a public campus. However, it doesn't shock me that the administrators' response was negative because, after all, we live in a southern state that historically votes conservative and that has a longstanding tradition of patriotism and nationalism. Students everywhere, even today but especially then, had their rights stripped from them under the guise of maintaining some sort of "order" or "control" over the student body even when no physical threat exists. However, that commonality doesn't make this any more right. I'm most perturbed by the extent of the punishments laid upon these students and the fact that the legal system found no error in the actions of the school, but this was around the same time as the Tinker vs. Des Moines case that I feel greatly increased the constitutional freedoms of students in various forms of protest. I'm proud to be able to look back on this case and say that I feel like we could have a sit-in in the Quad today and not be disrupted, though I don't know if protests and open debate around the stallion statue were as common in the 1960s as I feel they are today. I would hope that the administration would do nothing more than standby to ensure that no violence or altercations broke out. Knowing myself, I would definitely have been a part of this protest and would take part in one like it today given the opportunity. There's nothing more important than fighting for your rights, your freedoms and for the world that you want to live in.
Conner Y. (online)
After watching the video of the Texas State Ten, it was pretty radical, at the time to protest about the Vietnam war was to be considered an enemy, if I'm correct. The university did go a little too far by expelling them and dropping their GPA to a big ol' zero. This does give me a bittersweet sense because those generations before us had to go through this sense of oppression of expression.
Jose Valenzuela
T/TH-12:30
I share the same sentiment that many others have shared. It's hard to understand that the case of the San Marcos 10 is so unknown to the student body, considering the consequences for the ten students. My first impressions are rather angry. How could these student's rights be ignored like this? How could the university take such action towards a group of kids who just wanted to speak their mind in a purely peaceful way? But, as you start to wind down and think about the times that surrounded the event, as crazy as it sounds, the outcome seems to make sense. The San Marcos 10 was a small group of students in a country where thousands and thousands of young people just like them were being persecuted for their actions. Some were even murdered by our country's own military. I think during this time (especially in Texas) the correct attitude to handle civil protestors was sadly not in place. You also have to keep in mind that our most famous alum, LBJ, was president at the time and dealing with the effect of the Vietnam war, so perhaps that was a strong factor as well. If this happened more recently, maybe it would be a different story. It is even more sad that the case never got to see the doorway of the Supreme Court. I have found myself in political protests here at Texas State. As luck would have it, my very first semester here was during the 2016 presidential election, and the protest following it was massive. I was personally irate at the decision as I could not understand how someone I found to be so abhorrent could be elected president. Though my involvement in politics has someone what dipped since that time, I still feel that our president is not someone who I would want my future children to look up to in the slightest, not due to his political affiliation, but the awful qualities he possesses, so these strong feelings lead me to take part in the discussion surrounding the protests at the time.
Jack Pirtle, T/Th, 12:30 PM
After watching and listening, I find myself both surprised and not surprised. I'm surprised because that area is a "free speech" area on our campus and many people exercise and have exercised that right successfully. I'm not surprised on the hand because I have seen people be shooed away for something as simple as unpopular opinions. Some times this "free speech" area seems more like a "free" speech area. It's sad knowing that even now, some 50 years later, the same free speech issues can still be present. For myself, I believe I would have participated in the protests in'69 for the same reasons as the students. The U.S. needed to leave everything alone and we just couldn't. we spent way to many dollars and years on this war. Of course, having the knowledge of why the U.S. went to war in Vietnam is another huge influence in my decision.
Jarrett H. TTH 12:30
I found it incredibly surprising that the school went as far as expelling the students and dropping their GPA all the way down to zero. Did they really have to go THAT far? I find it pretty excessive but of course times were different back then which doesn't surprise me but I still don't agree with the school's decision. I've never participated in a protest but I have witnessed one and I'm always in such awe by how much passion students show when standing up for what they believe in and I'm glad to think that if we were to have another protest on campus today students wouldn't be expelled... or at least I would hope so.
Lucero T. TTH 12:30
The San Marcos 10 expressed their freedom of speech rights by protesting the Vietnam war, which given the time, was an already sensitive topic. The idea that these 10 students were not causing a disturbance on campus, but were disturbing "about 200 rednecks down the road who wanted to run them out of town", has me wondering how that was upheld in court. The University and its idea of what breaking the rules really is, is what caused the suspension. The dean at the time just did carried out what he thought was right at the time. That's the idea that held up in court. The students could've potentially been harmed by radicals the opposed their view, so the school felt it was right to expel them in order to avoid unnecessary conflict.
Jacob Buckley (T/TH)
Shira R.
TuTh class
Despite this being a major case regarding our school, I had never heard of the San Marcos 10 before this assignment. Although I believe expelling the students over a peaceful protest was harsh, I do not find it surprising considering the president in 1969 was an alumni. During his presidency LBJ escalated U.S. involvement in the war so it’s not shocking that his alma mater reacted harshly to students publicly expressing their disagreement with his actions. I personally would take part in a protest if it was something I was truly passionate. I believe I have a small amount of privilege and it would be a waste to not help make a change for those who don’t.
The fact that 10 students were expelled from a university for a non-violent protest is outrageous. Expulsion is a harsh punishment that the San Marcos 10 did not deserve. Punishment of any kind is unnecessary and unjust because the protest was completely justified. The San Marcos 10's peaceful and nonviolent protest didn't interrupt education or disturb the peace. Their first amendment rights were ignored. Incidents like this is what hinders a lot of people from protesting to bring awareness to inequalities people face everyday as a result of a flawed justice system.
Tori Glass T/TH 12:30pm
This is absolutely disheartening. The San Marcos 10 were clearly deprived of their first amendment rights for freedom of speech and right to assembly. This took place in a historical time when anti-war sentiment was lingering throughout the nation. Those sentiments were boiling to be heard. The stallions were purposefully created as a safe place for those voices. It's just incredibly ironic that the San Marcos 10 were punished for practicing free speech in an area dedicated for that very purpose. And what a cop out the school pulled! In class, we've discussed the unconstitutional practice of creating or enforcing policies that superficially attack one thing but are created with the intent of limiting protected speech. I feel like that's what has happened here. They were charged with possibly being too loud and disturbing nearby classes? I call complete bull. I guess the main reason this was upheld was because it dealt with an educational institution. Honestly, I don't know. It's just disheartening to know that this event has stained the history of our university.
Morgen Amalbert T/TH 12:30 PM
I definitely think it was wrong that the San Marcos Ten were expelled from the university for a year because of their protests on campus. I believe it violated their right to free speech as they were not causing any violence or harm. I do applaud them for standing up for what they strongly believed in, regardless of the consequences they had to face. I can't imagine how they felt after working hard towards their degrees and having that taken away from them. I have never participated in a protest before, but I would be open to it if it was about a cause that I was truly passionate about and if it was a peaceful protest.
Hannah Hill T/TH 12:30pm
It's frustrating that the San Marcos Ten were expelled due to the fact that the school said there was too much "hoo ra" around the protest which caused the disruption of free flow education. I feel like they didn't like what they were protesting an because it was getting to much attention they wanted it to be shut down. I think expelling them was extreme and if anything should make the school look bad and not the students.They expelled students over a protest they found offensive and disruptive, when it was just a non violent protest. I feel like everyone is commenting and saying they would protest, but I feel differently. I have no problem protesting, but it would greatly depend on if there were repercussions and what they were.
Celeste Tidwell T/TH 12:30pm
I actually found it totally insane that these ten students were totally expelled for what was essentially a successful peaceful protest. If the protest didn't cause hooplah would they have still been expelled? Isn't the point of a peaceful protest to create conversation and peacefully disrupt? I cannot believe the university is going to strip away the diplomas of ten students for essentially having and expressing an opinion. I'd like to know what "disruption of the free flow of education" actually means and who was in charge of making that decision. The formal charge was over noise and how it could have disrupted nearby classes. I don't know about you but when a class is playing a movie too loudly next door, no one gets expelled. Sorority girls loudly chanting in the quad don't get expelled. The bubble blower doesn't get expelled. Just because Texas State was made uncomfortable by the protest does not give them the right to expel the whole lot.
Lauren McDowell T/Th 12:30p
Sydney Rahmann, (TTH Class)
After learning about what happened to the San Marcos 10 I am slightly annoyed and angered. I think it is not fair to stop a peaceful protest and suspend those involved. I would consider this protests to be very peaceful. I do not understand why the judge choose to agree with the school in that it was "disrupting" students and their learning environment. It seems like the ruling went against the rules laid out in the first amendment and the students should have not been suspended. I would be motivated to be part of either a political protest or an environment protest. I believe it is important to be active in the community and do what you can to have your voice hear and joining a protest is a great way to do that!
I found it to be very disheartening that the students were expelled from the university even though they were taking part in a silent protest against the war. It seems like it was such an unfair punishment for the students at the time. The reasoning behind it was a bit hazy as well, like when they said even though the students themselves weren't causing a disruption, but the attention it was attracting was distracting seems like they were just arguing semantics. I'm personally a non-conflict personality type, but there are a few environmental issues such as pollution that I would definitely protest about if the time and place were appropriate and accommodating for me.
Michael S. - TTh 12:30 class
I feel like the students getting expelled was very has but reflective of the time period they were in. Sadly back then and maybe still now, the government has a way of manipulating rules in order to get what they want out of it and using biases in order to effect rulings. The students didn't do anything that wasn't out of the ordinary at the time in protesting the war but since the school didn't like it and could implement rulings as a university they went ahead an encroached on their free speech. I feel that a lot of anti-war efforts were shut down wrongly due to the fact the government wanted to keep everyone in check and try to put on the face that there everyone wanted the war and wanted to support us when that's not how it actually was. So based on what the govenment wanted, the could change rules regardless if it actually hurt its citizens.
For me the only thing that would make me rebel in a certain situation is if people of authority have blatantly gone against the people and have abused their power. That is a big thing that I stand for and I would join in a protest where the general population is being taken for granted or abused by higher powers which somewhat would relate to this story.
I am shocked to learn about the San Marcos Ten and the violation of free speech rights that occurred. What I find most upsetting and unnecessary is that the university not only expelled the students but they dropped their GPA's to 0 and eliminated all their earned class credit. As a public university, funded by the state of Texas, students at the university have first amendment rights. Furthermore, their expression did not cause a disruption. All in all, I just find it interesting that I have never heard of the San Marcos ten prior to this. On a personal note, I have topics that I am passionate about and if you ask me to share my opinion I will be more than happy to. However, it is not really in my personality to protest.
Kaylee Smith- TR 12:30-1:50
I think it is rather shocking and upsetting that the San Marcos 10 were suspended from the University. It's shocking that the judged said that they were a distraction to the campus and educational learning process. There have been numerous times when I walk through the quad and there are protesters or even preachers yelling at people as they walk through. When I had a class in Derek Hall in 2016, we could hear a preacher yelling at people as they walked through the quad and it was very distracting since we could hear him through the walls. I had know idea that this event happened with the San Marcos 10 and want to know why we don't talk about it as part of our universities past.
Sarah Fairweather
TTH 12:30
Considering the vast array and regularity of controversial protests I have seen gathered at the Stallions, I am surprised to learn a Vietnam War protest was judged to be crossing the line. Granted, there had been a crackdown on a national scale on Vietnam War protests, but the Stallions are a designated Free Speech space. Given that the protest was neither disrupting classes nor calling for violence, it is clear that Texas State University (Southwest Texas at the time) merely disagreed with the demonstration at a time where government criticism was under stringent restrictions. Technically and objectively speaking, the First Amendment rights of not only those San Marcos Ten but all of the original picketers were violated. None of the individuals should have been directed to disperse in the first place. The fact that students were reprimanded on an academic level is totally unacceptable. All of the time, energy, and money that these students had invested in their education was null and voided. To my understanding, they were given no refund, which almost if not definitely amounts to theft or fraud. These students were punished in such a way that only affected them as students – what about the protesters who were not students? They clearly did not face any legal repercussions, so it is discouraging to see that the University suppressed the speech of its own students in a way that also proved to be detrimental to their education and professional aspirations. Even after going through several judicial proceedings, the students were determined to have “interfered with the free flow of educational process” merely because there was a potential for the protest to become disruptive – despite a silent demonstration. I absolutely would have taken part in the protest for a bevy of reasons – the environmental damage caused by warfare, the risk of seeing someone I care about going off to die in a war they do not support, the inhumanity and unjustifiability of it all. Whether I would have stayed after being told to disperse or face suspension, however, is another question. I would like to believe that, like the San Marcos Ten, I would have stood my ground, knowing I was within the confines of my First Amendment rights. I know that fundamentally I would have opposed the war in the same way I have always opposed the United States getting involved in the Iraq War in recognition of extreme pro-war sentiments in the wake of 9/11. However, facing the truth, I believe that I would have walked away once threatened by the University. Although it is not right that the University silenced its students, under the same token of disapproving of the war, I would find it equally detrimental if I were to allow the protest of said war to harm my personal academic and lifelong goals. All of that to say, while I undoubtedly would have taken part in the initial protest, I cannot definitively say that I would have been able to find myself amongst the brave and bold San Marcos Ten. One cannot help but admire the irony, though, of President Lyndon Johnson’s alma mater oppressing its population in defense of its former student leading the war charge.
- Talya M (TTh 9:30-10:50 HON3396E)
Jenna Uptigrove
TR 12:30
I am astonished that not only were the San Marcos 10 expelled from Southwest Texas University but also they had their GPA's dropped to 0. This not only effected their lives in San Marcos at the University, but their prospective opportunities to be admitted into other schools after the event. What angered and astonished me further was the fact that the decision was upheld in court. The students were non-violently protesting their resentment against the Vietnam War. From the images shown in the videos, the students were merely sitting in the quad. This violets their rights of speech and of assembly so I can't believe that the deans decision was upheld.
Im surprised that David Bayless and Annie Burleson fought to get reinstated into the university. After that, I would have move on to another campus that respected my rights and honored my freedom of speech and right to assembly.
Living in Austin I have had the opportunity to partake in many protests, as well as [political] celebrations. As someone who has many relatives and friends belonging to the LBGT+Q community I have, for years, marched during pride and other LBGT+Q assemblies. My friend and I debated traveling to the Dakotas to partake in the Dakota Access Pipeline protests in the fall of 2016, but were unable to due to school and work obligations. I believe protests and community involvement is an extremely powerful tool that citizens of the United States posses in terms of showing the government our opinions. Hopefully protests like the Vietnam War protests will be protected on campus in the future.
It is very bothersome to hear how 10 students basically lost everything education wise just for standing up for what they believe in. We as citizens have the right to protest and freedom of speech. The fact that they were punished for expressing their rights is very wrong. It is crazy how it seems like we are still dealing with student rights being violated today. Personally I do not think I would go out and protest. I have a very strong opinion on what it accomplishes. I would rather give my support from a distance but still help in any way possible.
Christina S. Online class
I don't agree with the San Marcos 10 being expelled for the protest but I'm not surprised. Especially at that time the Vietnam War was a controversial issue and it makes sense that administrator would not want that sort of controversy to be on campus. Obviously they have the right to protest against the war. It was a peaceful protest and the excuse about it being a disruption they gave is a bunch of bs. It is not something that would fly now especially that campus contraction makes more of a disruption than anything.
Ruben G. TTH 12:30
I would say that i'm shocked about the ruling in the San Marcos 10, but I can't be after experiencing protests on campus, today. I am upset about the fact, that the students were peacefully protesting and it was considered a distraction to the campus and educational learning process. During the 2016 election protest, there were people fighting and yelling but that wasn’t a distraction and it lasted an entire day and a half. It so frustrating trying to fight for what you believe is the right thing and being punished for it, that’s violating their first amendment rights and the school was especially wrong for reducing their GPA to 0s.
Kierra Simmons T/TH 12:30
While it may not of been fair for consequences for them i can see why back then they would of gotten into such trouble for this, on campus. i would personally never join a protest because i don't see the point in standing somewhere such as a campus,and fighting for what i believe it when there is no one their to see you fight who will be able to make a change. i sometimes get annoyed when i see students protesting on campus because it is almost as if they are doing such only to make a scene because no one important enough is around to here it, i just dont see the point.
Tramesha Hardy
Online Class
This is disrespectful that they suspended/ expelled these student for a nonviolent protest. I don’t think the students who were apart of the protest should have been expelled. I feel like they didn’t break laws dealing with the first amendment. They did not cause any harm to other student attending the university or disrupt professors from teaching. I’m just glad that freedom of speech and protest are allowed by the statute now and even still it does not have an affect on student going to class. There may be some who stop to see what’s going on but other than that everything goes smooth.
Sam D.
TTh class
Before watching this video, I was unaware of the "San Marcos Ten." I would have never pegged Southwest Texas University as a school to result to expulsion for kids trying to stand up for what they believe in. I think this is very surprising due to the Constitution law of Freedom of Speech. On another note, I can see how the school could see the "San Marcos Ten" as only bad publicity for the school which probably gave the school rational to discipline the students. I think the Stallions statue now is utilized greatly to express opinions that people may be too cautious to say anywhere else. For me personally, I would not consider joining in on any type of protest, but I would participate in things to spread what I believe like "Free Prayer." Overall, I find the end result of expulsion from the school surprising and unfair to the students, because they should have been represented fairly under The Constitution.
After watching the video on the ten expelled students, I believe it was wrong to stop students from expressing themselves. This was a violation of the first amendment. If this had had occurred at a high school what the school did would be correct. However, since this is a University with adults our rights can not be denied. It is safe to say the protestors should not have been expelled because they were using their first amendment right of free speech and right to assemble.
Cody Tracy,
MC 4301 Online Class
It was wrong for school officials to expel the San Marcos 10, especially for a nonviolent protest. Anyone who is affiliated with Texas State knows that the one safe place to speak their mind or protest is the Stallions. The Vietnam was a very sensitive time for people on both sides, so I was not surprised with how the case resulted. I applaud all of the students who did choose to be a part of it. Free Speech in the 20th century was being challenged every which way, particularly during the Vietnam War era of history. some cases obviously were able to successfully use the first amendment in their favor, but when it came to the school based cases, very few succeeded like Tinker v. Des Moines.
Shannon C.
TTH 12:30
I find it wrong of the University to expel those 10 students, especially for a peaceful protest. There was no harm or violence caused by the students and yet they were punished by the school. I also find it insanely shocking that this has also occurred in recent years. We should be able to express our opinions as we please (to certain extents), because of our first amendment rights. As I walk through campus I almost expect to see some sort of protest over any topic. If there is no disruption of the educational process, there should be no punishment. As for the Vietnam protest, I understand that the war was a very sensitive subject for almost everyone. The students weren't participating in violence or civil disobedience, therefore, the expulsion was not called for and presumably caused a bigger disruption that the protest did. It seems to be a pattern between both cases, that both protests were over tense topics, that caused many people to be upset, which seems to cause discomfort for the University, which is in my opinion why there was a repercussion for their involvement in practicing their first amendment rights.
MacKenzie Dornak TTH class
wow. I think their punishment was too extreme, losing their college credits and getting expelled. their protest was peaceful and it's not like they were yelling obscene language or anything, they were just holding up signs. However, I think protests like these lead to change over time so they are not in vain. ]
Wendy Aviles, TTH class.
It does not surprise me that the university would punish students for protesting. Just last year I had multiple friends who were arrested for protesting at Texas State. As an advocate for free speech, this worries me because it creates a challenge for freedom of expression. If people can peacefully protest, and still be punished by the law, it could prevent people from speaking up. We need to stop trying to hinder or hide voices simply because we do not agree with them. I protest for People of COlor and LGBT+ rights. As long as I feel safe, I will continue to do so. Our voices deserved to be heard.
Dejai, W. TTH Class
It's hard to believe today that students could be punished so severely for their silent and non-violent protest. But, in a way, the fact that those 10 students stood their ground for what they believed in despite the consequences reinforces their message. As time has progressed, it seems people's understanding of First Amendment rights has expanded, and looking back, it seems silly for these students to have been punished for making use of their rights. I'm not sure what causes would make me protest, mostly because I'm not sure how much protesting would actually make a difference. But I'm glad that people now have the right to do so.
Dalton Marshall, TTH 12:30pm class
It has been 50 years since the San Marcos Ten and I feel the current social climate across the entire country, including college campuses, has allowed for a renewed passion for protests. From marches to silent sit ins, many of these have happened here at Texas State, the LBJ sit in last year being a monumental one. I find it both interesting and inspiring how we as a university have come from expelling peacefully protesting students to actually listening to and collaborating with modern students who protest. I would be open to a protest if I connected with the cause on an authentic level and felt the protest was in good taste with ambitions for positive change.
- Bart Peluso TTH 12:30pm Class
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