In light of political protests on the Texas State campus, across the state, nation and world 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 10. These 10 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.
Read this University Star feature story about some of the
members of the San Marcos 10 returning to Texas State on the 50th
anniversary of the protest in 2019: https://www.universitystar.com/life_and_arts/features/san-marcos-10-revisit-texas-state-for-50-year-protest-anniversary/article_65545e12-7412-5846-902c-890314667756.html
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 read the article and listen to the NPR report, return here and add a
comment
with your reaction.
With your comment, please include your
first name and the initial of your last name, and your class (11 a.m. class, 3:30 p.m. class, or Online class). I
need this information to keep track of your comments for participation points.
155 comments:
Sophie P. 11a.m.
I don’t think it was fair for the University to suspend those 10 students for a year. The protesters didn’t make any noise or disrupt the learning environment and they were still punished. Protesting the Vietnam War should have been protected by the 1st Amendment especially since Texas State is a public University.
Gustavo 11a.m
The whole situation with the San Marcos 10 was uncalled for. The repercussions they endured were totally too harsh. The protest didn't engage in violence towards anyone or the school itself. I know it was different times like the article mentions, but it was out of line. They weren't able to continue their studies after that and were automatically label as bad guys. Their sacrifice to stand up against adversity is very heroic and made many generations have a better future.
Elle G., 3:30 p.m.
A notable thing about the treatment of the San Marcos 10 that stuck with me is how their case was ruled in favor of Texas State, seemingly overlooking the precedent of Tinker v Des Moines. The most notable thing, however, is how these 10 silent protesters were the ones punished even though in the NPR report, one of the 10 says that the judge ruled that the “hoorah” from the rest of the crowd disrupted the educational process. I’m appreciative to be attending TXST at a time when the stallions do represent a protected area for free speech. I think its an incredible legacy that the 10 have left, and its a legacy that activists on campus continue every semester.
I believe that the way the University handled the situation was completely wrong but not unusual for the time, when you take into consideration the political and cultural climate. The protest that the San Marcos 10 took part in is protected by the first amendment as they were not interacting violently with anyone or causing disorder, and it was on public property. This is one of the many instances of the punishment not matching the crime, expulsion from a University and not counting their college credits from the past year is very serious and should not have been the route that Texas State University took at the time.
David H - Online section
A school sabotaged its own students' scholastic and professional opportunities as retaliation for a perceived blemish to its nationalist reputation. The San Marcos 10 were punished for challenging accepted ideas, and for speaking peacefully in favor of peace, by an institution for higher learning, in the leader of the free world. It's a pretty big pill to swallow.
Ultimately, the San Marcos 10 were proven right - the war was gratuitous and manufactured. Regrettably, it doesn't appear that things have changed for the better - during the 2020 protests, for instance, in Austin, 16 year old Brad Ayala suffered a beanbag round to the forehead that cracked his skull while he was merely watching protests from across the highway. Video footage shows he was sniped while he was standing still, disrupting literally nothing. A 20 year-old student from Texas State University, Justin Howell, was also shot in the head by a non-lethal round at a protest when someone near him threw a water bottle and a bag. In another incident in downtown Buffalo, NY, 75-year-old Martin Gugino was standing still on the sidewalk as a battalion of police knocked him down, hitting his head on the pavement. Video shows officers marching past as he bleeds red. Fortunately, all three men survived, but they are only a few of many such incidents making it very clear that America has a problem.
Payton C. 11 am
I think that even for the time, the school took this completely out of hand. This is much like the New York Times vs US case. The Bill of Rights was put in place to protect these students to the right to protest. No matter what beliefs of the war. In the end, the San Marcos 10 were correct in their beliefs of the war being a lethal waste of blood shed. I had honestly never heard of this instance, which probably tells us how much the University has wanted to cover this up.
Ella S. - ONLINE SECTION
Personally, I think the way the University handled this situation was completely uncalled for. Especially when you take into account the political and cultural aspects of it. The San Marcos 10 protest did no harm whatsoever and they were not causing a disturbance. In fact, this event occurred on public property so they had every right to be there standing their ground. Not counting previous credits from the past year is stressful and disappointing news to come by. I too would be devastated if my previous credits were not accounted for.
Tabby K. 11 a.m.
I would like to say I am surprised by the account of events, but I am not. The Vietnam war was propagandized. Nobody wants to admit when they have made a mistake, especially a president who has sent countless people over the sea to die or come back, only to live as if they did die. This is an example of how suppression and censorship can start at any level--it doesn't have to be publicly broadcast national news. A singular protest on a college campus could cause change, and the administration knew that. The story made me sad. I like to watch war movies because they show the realities of war and how serving really is, but I hate them for it, too, because I know not much is dramatized. The example Satagaj gave about the date she went on is a good example. I also forgot how far women's rights have come in the last few years. I was actually surprised about the curfew or rule to live on campus for women. How can change be so slow if so many people believe in it?
Kayla W.
3:30 class
It angered me to read this story. It is entirely unacceptable to censor nonviolent protestors and to ignore precedent. The San Marcos 10 were utilizing their first amendment rights and this University failed them. I am grateful that Texas State has made progress since then, with the symbolic free speech stallions, but it did cause me to lose respect for the history of this institution. I anticipate that Texas State will continue to improve and become more encouraging of students to use their voices every year.
After reading and listening to information about the San Marcos ten, I am upset but not surprised at how the situation was handled. Considering the time period this all happened, I can understand the censorship authorities wanted to have on these young students. How these students were treated was entirely uncalled for and violated their rights. Things have definitely changed, but I commend every student who remained after the three-minute threat because they stood up as a voice for the voiceless.
Although I am not surprised that the University would do this it is disappointing to read. They attempted to censor students to keep the University from associating itself with what they viewed as distasteful. However the San Marcos 10 were protected by the first amendment to have a nonviolent protest and express their opinions publicly. Even if the University disagreed with the students opinions it doesn't mean they should be allowed to take away their right to free speech which is protected by the constitution.
Emilee K: Online
It is sad to read about how these students were treated after exercising their First Amendment right to freedom of speech and non-violent protest. Nobody was harmed in these student's open expression of opinion. The University did not want to be associated with certain viewpoints regarding the Vietnam War so they silenced these students and punished them unfairly. The impact of the San Marcos 10 lives on in the lives of Texas State students and in the free speech area on campus.
Summer R. (Online class)
I don't think the San Marcos 10 should have been suspended/expelled. I believe this very clearly violated first amendment rights. I understand this was many many years ago and times were drastically different, but it is shocking to me that a public university would take this strong of measures. I think this would be handled completely different today. In fact, students often protest current events at Texas State and I don't think there is any repercussions for that; I would even say it's encouraged by most faculty for students to share their stances. Also, I'm surprised that this is the first time I have heard about this. I follow many TXST news accounts and I'm in Facebook groups with alumni and have never heard of this.
Jaxson S. (online class)
The story about the San Marcos 10 is enlightening. My first thought was "wow the Vietnam war was controversial," I did not the magnitude and how divisive it was. The experience these students had for not supporting it and being vocal about it was horrible. They were being forced to agree and support something they did not and it is terrible. Also, their being kicked out was uncalled for. It shows that the University and most of America did not care about the first amendment rights of people. It is sad how they were treated for not having the same thoughts as other people. I am grateful that this is being highlighted in class.
Matthew Suarez (Online.)
The picture of them around the statue where they got suspended goes hard. There are thousands of stories like this around the United States, some of them turning out way worse. The 10 definitely did not have their first amendment rights respected. I'm glad now they are recognized as icons for freedom of speech. I was surprised I hadn't heard about this story before, I think it's a cool part of our schools history and the story should be spread.
MiaJ- Online class
honestly, I feel as though what the university did to the 10 students was too much and uncalled for. the repercussions they brought onto them were way too harsh. All they did was protest the Vietnam War and while protesting they didn't disrupt anything like causing violence or making a lot of noise but they were still punished severely for it. I feel as though that protest should've been protected by the first amendment since it's considered a public university.
Lillie Ray (Online)
The story about the San Marcos 10 is sad. It’s very disturbing to see how this situation was handled. These 10 students right were violated and didn’t deserve to be censored for non violent protesting. Today this situation would handled very differently. Suspending these students based off their actions is not right. The San Marcos 10 deserved to be supported.
After reading the article posted during the 50th anniversary and listening to the podcast aired less than 2 months after the attack on the twin towers, I feel as though the punishments that the San Marcos 10 received were unnecessary; especially when you take the Tinker v. Des Moines ruling into consideration. Texas State, then Southwest Texas, is and was a public university. The protest was non-violent and I feel as though it violates their first amendment right to freedom of speech and expression. When the San Marcos 10 tried to fight the punishments given to them, they failed to win. I noticed in the article that the university had "engaged in maneuvers and machinations to win" but the San Marcos 10 should've been the real winners. In the podcast, one member of the group mentioned that he didn't appear on the graduation list when he returned to the school to receive his diploma and that the school replied with it being a mistake. They still did not allow him to walk the stage and he received his diploma by mail. The punishments received for this peaceful protest were uncalled for, especially noting the fact that most of the educational disturbance was caused by those not involved in the protest; and even though society has become more lenient on this matter, we are still facing issues regarding peaceful protests. This group of 10 people will forever hold a place in San Marcos' history, but this does not mean we are done fighting for what is rightfully ours.
The San Marcos 10 were ten brave students that attended Texas State University. They used their knowledge to form their own beliefs and opinions about the war. So much that they wanted to stand for those feelings and show pride in them. To this day they stand by their decision to continue protesting. I feel that what they did is in no way wrong. Texas State in a public university and this should have been protected by the 1st Amendment. The protest was peaceful and informative, nothing was violent.
Jarris Jones
11:00AM class
I believe the 10 students being expelled and removed from the University in 1969 was completely unnecessary but I do know that at the time the topic in which they were protesting against was shunned upon if you were to speak out against the war or try to sway people that the war was unnecessary. For the university to be used as a public forum and then to be expelled from that very place is a very unfortunate situation.
Jessica Aguilar-Garcia (ONLINE)
The “San Marcos 10” situation and reaction from the university overall was a very uncalled for situation in my opinion. Those students should have had the right to peacefully protest since they were doing no harm. I understand that things were different at the time, but those students still had rights and they should not have been expelled and stripped of their college education. Not everyone went to college, and these students got kicked out for actively exercising their rights. These students deserved support in standing up for what the believe in, but instead they were put down. Texas State University should have done better for their students.
Grady Elbel
11:00am class
Ideally, I don't believe the ten students should've been punished. They weren't causing any harm to anyone, and the protest was a peaceful one. Along with this, their speech should've been protected by the first amendment. All in all, the actions of the university at the time were a little extreme, those students showed that they understood their right to protest, and Texas State officials came off poorly in this exchange.
Reading the article was honestly very interesting. I had not known about the San Marcos 10 before reading the article. I love learning about subjects such as these protest. I love a peaceful protest such much, it speaks so much volume about what happens when the opposing side was scared. Which is exactly what had, the Dean of Students at the time was scared and needed a resolution ASAP. I'm not shocked that they weren't allowed to attend college for a year, what I am surprised about is how their case was consistently thrown out. They rightfully were protected by the first amendment and should have been treated differently. It's amazing that the San Marcos 10 who are still alive are proud to be a part of something like that. They were complete strangers before the protest and don't regret a thing about being a part of it. I love this story so much and reminds me of the First Five, the first five black students to integrate Southwest Texas State.
Hannah Bude 11:00am
In my opinion the protest was civil and peaceful the kids shouldn't have been punished for something that is covered under our amendments. The first amendment protects freedom of speech and that is what they were doing. The actions that the University took were a little bit extreme.
Texas State was completely in the wrong for punishing the San Marcos 10 for protesting. Their first amendment right should have protected them from any consequences the university thought they needed. Setting a three-minute limit on their protest shouldn't have been agreed upon. How can one set a limit on protesting when we have freedom of speech. I believe this extreme punishment was given because it went against the majority's beliefs during that time.
Amy Lonsway 3:30 class
I think it is unfair what Texas State did in this situation as there were no details on this protest inciting harm or violence or disturbing the peace. Therefore I think this protest shouldve been protected by the First Amendment. I think the University took this scenerio and blew it out of proportion.
I was surprised that the San Marcos 10 case was ruled in favor of Texas State, despite precedents set from other cases (such as Tinker v. Des Moines). I believe that the protestors were wrongly punished, especially since their behaviors didn't affect the educational process. I don't think the punishment was unusual for the time, especially because the protestors went against majority opinion about the Vietnam War, but that doesn't make it just! The San Marcos 10 definitely helped to build and preserve the stallion legacy of protected free speech.
I found it so interesting to get to actually hear and see the words the San Marcos 10 had to say about the incident. I find it so amazing they were willing to be suspended if it meant they got to stick up for what they believe in. I think, especially at the time, it was almost more difficult to express ideas that were unpopular, not just in society and in relation with the law, but socially with your family and friends. For some, it might be the same today but I feel like there has been an increased level of openness towards diverse ideas.
Texas State was definitely in the wrong at the time, but if anything, it shows how much they have changed. There are multiple protests and speeches that occur int hat area on campus and it seems to be a safe place to express ideas now.
Melanie S.
M & W 3:30-4:50
Maya Loving 3:30pm class
Personally, I think that Texas State was definitely in the wrong in this situation. People should be allowed to speak freely under the first amendment right. They were not being violent or anything of the sort. The protest was very peaceful, so I don't understand why there was an issue and such extreme measures were being taken. Texas State University should have handled the situation way differently.
Anna M (3:30 section)
The story of the San Marcos 10 helped me to realize how controversial the Vietnam War was. It is crazy that these students got suspended for peacefully protesting the war, and that the court ruled against them because the crowd was making a disruption. In class, we learned that multiple court decisions hold that hostile audiences cannot silence lawful speakers. I am wondering why this did not apply to the San Marcos Ten? This whole situation demonstrates how political agendas can quickly demean free speech and other First Amendment rights, such as the freedom to assemble. Considering some of the San Marcos 10 were Vietnam veterans, it is even sadder that they were silenced.
Levi L. Online
I don't see a point in expelling the students if they were silent protesting. Even before considering the political statements they were making I just think it's a bad move on the college's part. To expel someone over their speech in a place that is known to contemplate and discuss extensively ideas of thoughts is hypocritical. Then to get to their political message of not approving the war. It makes sense to protest when their buddies are getting shipped off to a country they know nothing about. To me personally, it seems like a normal response. Fifty years later or so I couldn't see Texas State acting in a similar way in 1969.
Taylor B.
I do not think that it was right for the students to be expelled for using their right to protest. The protests were peaceful and did not disrupt the learning environment to be suspended. Considering they were on public grounds, they should have been protected by their first amendment rights.
Jessica Y - Online course
I admire the San Marcos 10 for standing up for what they believe in. I also commend them for doing so peacefully. I do not agree with the action taken against them by a public university, but also, given the heating political climate of the time this happened, and how high emotions were regarding the war, I am not surprised such drastic action was taken. Our first amendment should have protected them in this instance if you ask me. There have been far more acts of protest and that have had significantly more dangerous repercussions than this.
Sarah Silguero - 11am
I think that the situation concerning The San Marcos 10 was completely unfair and poorly handled. Every American has the right to a peaceful protest and the school shouldn't have abused its power upon them by expelling them just because they felt they could. They were protesting for a good cause and didn't include any sort of violence or hate speech that would drive them to expulsion. They should have been protected, after all, Texas State is a public university. I believe a talk between the students and the school would make sense if they didn't agree but not expulsion.
Taryn Beeman- 3:30pm
I think that they should have not been suspended and instead been protected by the First Amendment. It was not fair that the people around them are what got them in trouble because they were not disrupting anything and being quiet. It was a quiet and peaceful protest that deserves to be protected.
I don't think they should have been suspended. Texas State University is a public university and they were not causing a disturbance or disrupting any classes. It is freedom of speech, assembly, and protest which is all covered under the first amendment. There was no action that put national security in danger therefore, they shouldn't have had to face consequences.
After reading and listening to the audio, I believe the students shouldn't have been suspended from school. They should have been allowed to speak their opinion freely without fear of being brought to court and told that they were causing a disruption.
Kambri Wilson (3:30 pm)
The consequences that the student protestors received were not needed at all, this was a quiet peaceful protest. In the University Star article one of the first things said was that there was no arguing, no violence and no shouting that transpired on campus so its hard to understand why they were suspended for peacefully protesting. These student should have been protected by the First Amendment.
After consuming the texts and audio provided, I would disagree with the students' suspension from school. I believe in free speech and that they have the right to speak freely about their concerns. No consequences should have been given under the First Amendment's protection.
Madison Roberts (3:30pm)
I feel like expelling the students for protesting the Vietnam War was extreme. These students should have the freedom to peacefully protest as stated in our First Amendment. In the University Star article it stated that they were protesting peacefully. There was no disruption or violence going on. I feel like maybe the University didn't want to be tied to something that controversial at the time and get a bad reputation, but that's still no excuse at all to punish someone for practicing a right they have. I am certain that today if the same thing happened Texas State University would not expell the students.
It's so wrong that the San Marcos 10 were punished like that, but it's definitely not surprising considering the time period. The students had every right to protest and make their stances known, and it's honorable that they stuck to it despite the threats of suspension. On top of that, they were protesting peacefully - something that people have always love to bring up and advocate for over and over again - and it still didn't matter. I also can't believe their case was ruled against them despite the results of Tinker v. Des Moines, but people will often pick and choose when certain things appl based on the situation even if it's wrong. Overall, the reaction was extremely dramatic and I'm hoping this sort of thing wouldn't happen today! I don't think it would, but you never know.
Lila Jones 11 am
It's hard to believe that Texas State University suspended their own 10 students for protesting against what they thought was right. In such a scary time, including the media flooding the news daily about their loved ones being in Vietnam and not knowing if they will make it home. There is nothing wrong for protesting for what you think the government needs to change or be heard, especially when our first amendment covers that. Texas state is a public university, anyone can come in and talk about anything they want as long as it doesn't cause violence, so why did the San Marcos 10 get punished? Especially as they were students attending and causing no disturbance for anyones education.
Reading this story saddened me, but like others, I wasn't very surprised as back then censorship was known for, especially on topics such as the Vietnam War. However, I do agree that the students should not have been mistreated or ripped away from their first amendment rights and this is where I like to think about how much has changed since then. Texas State now, I think does well when it comes to protests or students voicing their opinions publicly as I see many throughout the quad each day, which shows progress. Overall, I was inspired by the San Marcos 10 as they stood up for what they thought and knew was right and didn't care about the actions of their authorities.
Marion R.- 11am class
I am not surprised with how the university handled this situation. Although I do not think how they handled the situation was okay. Those group of students had the right to voice their opinion on what was happening especially since it was a peaceful protest. The University Star also took extreme measures on Bill Cunningham, who covered the story.
Noah Ezigbo-4301 3:30-4:50pm
Honestly with how Texas State is now and especially the time it was back then when it was known as Southwest Texas State, I am not surprised with how the situation was handled and the outcome of that decision. These students who were only expressing their first amendment right were in no violation of what they were doing. These students lost a year of education and even were set back a year due to their inactivity of going to classes they rightfully were paying for. I believe none of these students should have been stripped of their first amendment right. To see how far the school has come since "The First Five", to the "San Marcos 10", a lot has changed.
Gabriel S. (3:30pm)
I thought that was some bull****. However, I understand not everybody has the same perspective on major issues. But for a Dean of College to suspend students for peacefully protesting seems moronic. I appreciate David Bayless, a veteran of the war, standing his ground saying it was "a no brainer" to protest for what he believed in. I developed a sense of inspiration from this group of protesters because I too will not stand down from something I believe is right.
This is a direct violation of our first amendment right. This was handled so poorly and the university is fully to blame. Suspending student for practicing their first amendment right is ridiculous and never should have happened.
I was surprised that they were suspended not only from Texas State but also from any university in Texas for the next year. That definitely took it too far and made it seem like they were doing more than just trying to keep them from disrupting classes. As for the legal proceedings, I'm surprised that they lost, especially since they cited Tinker v. Des Moines, which was decided the same exact year the protest occurred. How ever they were able to decide that didn't apply here is beyond me.
Teyanna G. 11am
This is an awful situation. These students were peacefully and silently protesting an inhumane massacre. The university was completely at fault for suspending the ten. Their first amendment rights were violated and the students should not have been penalized.
This protest should have been covered under the first amendment right to peacefully protest as they were not standing or even speaking, just silently protesting something they believed to be unethical. I am not surprised they were kicked out of school for protesting a war during this time period in our history, but I don't agree with that decision. I do believe the University was in the wrong for suspending the students and taking away credits they earned previous to this incident.
This situation is ridiculous not only in hindsight but for the time as well. It is apparent that their right to free speech was violated by the university. Under the first amendment, we have the freedom to say anything that we want as long as it does not in-sight violence, and they were not calling for violence but instead just saying what they believe in. In a public place open to anybody you are allowed to speak freely and South West Texas did not allow for that to happen.
It's apparent the students' free speech rights were violated and the consequences too severe, especially because the protest were not aggressive in the least. Due to protesting a war they negatively viewed they had to be expelled altogether? That's not fair especially when practicing their rights. South West Texas shouldn't have allowed that to happen.
As I read the article and realized they were not being violent, yet were still removed from the school, breaks my heart. I understand schools and society were not as evolved and accepting as they are now, but I still don't think the university should have told them to leave and cancel their credits. It's hard to grasp that this happened at Texas State, but it is extremely important to know. These 10 were not being violent, they were peacefully expressing themselves under the First Amendment. I am happy to know how our university now is accepting of free speech on campus.
I accidentally wrote the wrong time in my last post.
As I read the article and realized they were not being violent, yet were still removed from the school, breaks my heart. I understand schools and society were not as evolved and accepting as they are now, but I still don't think the university should have told them to leave and cancel their credits. It's hard to grasp that this happened at Texas State, but it is extremely important to know. These 10 were not being violent, they were peacefully expressing themselves under the First Amendment. I am happy to know how our university now is accepting of free speech on campus.
Parker B: 11am
The story of the San Marcos 10 sounds like something out of a movie. I love how they stood up for what they believed was right, regardless of the consequences. It's hard to believe that the TXST administration, even if it was more than 50 years ago, punished these people so severely, simply for utilizing their first amendment rights. It's cool to hear that their opinions haven't changed, and they still stand for the same anti-war sentiments. Mr. Holman is awesome. When I read that, to this day, he wakes up in the morning just to throw a rock at Old Main, I genuinely laughed out loud. These people are very admirable, more people should follow in their footsteps and stand up for what's right, even if it is unpopular.
Lia F. - online section.
I had no clue that this happened. I genuinely had never heard about them. I find it crazy to imagine that such a peaceful protest like the one they had, had such bad consequences. They were not violent they simply wanted to make people think about what the Vietnam war was causing. Their rights were violated. I think that especially with being students at the school, the staff should’ve supported them more. Their free speech was violated. It sounds unavailable but considering the year I guess it is not too impossible to imagine.I think the university was at fault by suspending them. The 10 students were brave knowing that there would be consequences but decided to stick to their beliefs.
Malcolm Lunn - 11am class
The San Marcos 10 situation was a unfair one. Those students shouldn't of gotten suspended for a year, all they did was voice their concern about the Vietnam war in a public space. The school completely mishandled the situation, but it hasn't happened again since so hopefully that was the one and only time that would ever happen.
Dillon Van Zandt-11a.m. class
I was unaware of the San Marcos 10 and how unfair the university was to these students. The students spoke for what they believed in while not being confrontational or causing a commotion. Thier free speech was violated and the punishment was harsh. I find it particularly cruel that Texas State decided to cancel the student's credits.
Haymanot Eshetu
3:30-4:50 MW
San Marcos has had one of the craziest histories in terms of protesting. The university has always stood on "free speech" yet has mistreated its minority students for decades now. The san Marcos 10 was no different, it was supposed to have been a peaceful protest, with no violence involved, and its result should not have been the suspension of these students. These were revolutionaries, the people for the people who lost their chance to be accredited in their studies after this many years of hard work. The student's free speech should've been held up higher, and the institution should have supported its students instead of politics.
Claire -3:30pm class
I don’t agree with why the San Marcos 10 were protesting, especially having family members who are Vietnam veterans, who fought for our freedom, the protests were dumb. Whatever my view may be on the subject, I do believe that Americans have the right in the first amendment to free speech even against our government. Therefore, I disagree with university’s decision to kick out the 10 students.
Jacob Campos 11 am
I think its funny to see this as a spectacle because today, protests all around the campus are very normal. I think it is a great injustice that the San Marcos 10 case did not be reviewed or moved forward. Its a shame that Tinker v. Des Moines was cited for their case and still thrown out. For me, it is even more outrageous that they did execute a silent and peaceful protest and still faced the consequences of suspension. Its a shame that the school now recognizes them however, it would be better sweet to me because this is the same system that failed them. One of the San Marcos 10 returned and couldn't even walk the graduation stage!
Erendida A- online
I feel like Texas State is a very safe space to be able to express yourself, and they welcome it by having the freedom of speech statue on the quad, so it’s very Interesting to learn about students being punished for doing just that. I’m glad to see we’ve come a long from that, but it is upsetting to know that 10 students had to suffer unfair consequences for expressing how they felt during a very traumatic time for many people.
katie A 11:am
Texas State is a public university so first amendment rights should be protected. Its understanding that not everyone will have the same views on certain issues, but for the dean to suspend 10 students for a whole year was not called for. This is a direct violation of our first amendment right and it never should have happened.
Abbye S. 11 am MW
The thing that I found the most astounding about this incident was that the 10 students were not verbally protesting or causing any kind of disruption yet we’re still suspended. I was also disappointed to find out that the court did not follow the precedent set months prior by Tinker v Des Moines. It’s humbling to see how far the university has come since the San Marcos 10, and makes me especially grateful for the freedoms we have now to express ourselves and our beliefs on campus.
I think that the university could have handled the situation better, for sure. They were protected by the first amendment and were not disrupting anything or becoming violent. It is upsetting that they were suspended and punished for standing up for something they believe in. I'm glad the university has changed its ways and become more welcoming to this kind of stuff.
Jordan Gentry -Online Section
I think that the University handled this situation entirely wrong. I think that these students should not have been suspended because they were causing no harm or damage to anyone or to the campus. Protesting for the Vietnam war should be protected under the first amendment but the University failed to do so. In the interview, one of the 10 students said that the judge said they were disrupting the educational process for other students but I just don't see what harm they caused. I am thankful that our school now protects your rights to freedom of speech. For example, the stallion's statue is a place for students to go and express their free speech.
Sydney T. 3:30-4:50 MW
With there being a non-violent way of practicing their first amendment right through protest, I do not agree with the decision of suspension/ expulsion. Not only because of how the manner went about, but Texas State has a dedicated area for free speech, it's ironic. I do understand that the university did not want to be associated with the situation, but their solution was unfair.
After reading and listening about the protest, I believe that the University did not handle it well at all. I believe that the protest was peaceful and that they should have had every right to express their feelings and have their speech protected by the first amendment. The protesters never disrupted the learning environment so I believe suspending them is wrong.
Zach Klinge 3:30 MW
I do not think it was fair for Texas State to suspend the 10 students, especially for a whole year. The protest was peaceful, ands the students did everything in their own rights supplied by the United States first amendment. The learning environment was never disrupted, and Texas State really did not handle this situation well at all.
Lizbeth R (3:30)
Reading the article and listening to the NPR report broadcast was extremely upsetting. A quote that stuck out to me was said by Joseph Saranello. “We felt we had the right to be where we were as long as we were peaceful,” Saranello said. “I think the university felt really threatened.” I agree that the school probably felt threatened so they suspended the 10 students even though they were quietly sitting in the grass with black armbands. No violence, no disruptions, just a peaceful protest that they all believed in.
I truly believe TXST failed these students. The students should not have been suspended and barred from registering for classes for a year. The students didn't do anything illegal; they broke no laws. Therefore, I feel like they should've won their lawsuits. I was surprised to see that even though their lawyers cited Tinker v. Des Moines, the case was still thrown out. I believe the students should've won. College is all about learning how to express yourself and stand up for what you believe in; this is exactly what the students did. The students were not violent or causing a crazy/dangerous environment. They were aware that people would not agree with them, but still handled it well. The university should've realized this and reaccessed the punishment. The university was definitely in the wrong.
Noah C.(3:30)
The story of The San Marcos Ten was fascinating, a battle over free speech happed on the very campus we walk every day. I often put myself into the shoes of the brave protesters and ask myself if I would have made the same courageous decision they did. To stay and peacefully protest their beliefs. I would like to think I would stay, but with the fear of being removed from campus, and having an even greater possibility of being drafted. I can see why so many young men chose to leave the protest. I realize now just how selfless of a decision it was for these students to stand and be an advocate for something that could ultimately hurt their future. I believe The San Marcos 10 protested because it was more important than their immediate problems. If they didn’t speak up, who would?
Sasha Mulisa 3:30
Upon reading the article and listening to the NPR segment, I think it's really unfair that those kids were expelled from this university for simply expressing their first amendment rights. They had every right to protest a war that they believed was unjust. T believe that we've come a long way when it comes to students at Texas State University being able to protest and express their dissatisfaction at current political events. The students here and at all universities are the future people who will be running this country and we deserve to have a say of how we hope society is heading.
I am in shock after reading the article and listening to the interview. I cannot believe the repercussions that the San Marcos 10 faced. They were peacefully protesting in a public space, and no violence occurred due to the protests. Dean Floyd Martine was completely out of line by expelling these students and erasing their previously earned credits!! I am proud of the San Marcos 10 for standing their ground, and for remaining committed to their protest. Texas State was wrong for treating these brave students the way that they did, and I am glad that the university now allows and encourages peaceful protests in the quad.
After reading the article and listening to the NPR segment I can conclude that what happened to the 10 students that got expelled from the university was unfair. Our right to protest is protected by the first amendment and they were just exercising their right. They did not pose any danger and cause any violence to occur, it was a simple peaceful protest. This is the first I heard about this injustice that occurred at TXST and it made me sad to learn about. I am glad that we have progressed since then and hope to continue to become more encouraging of students to speak freely and use our voices.
Rebecca Cade 11 a.m.
It's ironic to be learning about the San Marcos 10 when I found out about them only a week ago when I was grocery shopping. I found a history book for San Marcos and read their story. I'm happy to see that their legacy is forever engraved in the history of this city.
I am shocked to learn about Texas State's unfair treatment of the protestors. Texas State tries it's hardest to be politically correct, so it surprises me that at one point they took away such liberties from students. I understand that times were different back then but there was no reason for the Dean of Students to make them leave. The students stayed silent and peaceful, there was no commotion yet they were threatened to leave. It's unfair that their futures were put at risk just because they were against the Vietnam War. I am glad the San Marcos 10 turned into heroes and that Texas State is known for being in the wrong.
Ric D, 3:30 pm class
The issue with the San Marcos 10 stems from the way the Texas State prioritized their protection over the students. Freedom of Speech was exercised in the correct way however Texas States punishments for them would make you think they assaulted other students. The people involved were simply stating their opinions and the actions were not consequential of that. I believe the University made the wrong move, however I do believe that if that situation happened today it would be handled very differently.
Reuben O. (3:30)
It's extremely shocking that you can suspend a student for a whole year and strip them of their transcripts over a peaceful protest. I feel like the San Marcos 10 are brave for staying without knowing what the repercussions of their actions would be, but I also feel like their punishment was one that they might have expected the least to happen to them. It's completely unfair and unjustifiable. Simply arresting them would have been less cruel punishment in my opinion. I'm a firm believer in standing on your morals and standing your ground in the face of adversity. The San Marcos 10 have my support.
Elijah Ridout - Online
This situation is shocking for many reasons. The main one being that Texas State is a public institution and one would imagine that first amendment rights would be protected - especially on campus. Yes, it was a much different time 50 years ago, however the students in question peacefully and respectfully protesting a war which was responsible for the lives of many Americans. As a result of their protest, they were unable to further their education at the university. This is not only unfair, it also does a poor job at representing the democracy that America was founded on. In this country, so long as it is not harmful, you should be allowed to vocalize you opinion.
Jared P 3:30 p.m. MW
It was very interesting to see the different reasons that the members of the San Marcos 10 decided to protest. From being a hippie that didn't support the war to someone that had served in Vietnam the year before. The three that stood out to me the most were Sallie Ann Satagaj, Murray Rosenwasser, and David Bayless. Satagaj remembers watching the news showing all the young men that were dying each and every day. Her father was also a medic in the Vietnam war. Rosenwasser was apart of the My Lai Massacre. Bayless also served in the war but he didn't understand the severity of it until he got home. In the article, he talks about how he had to educate himself on the war to fully understand what was going on and what he had done overseas. I also enjoyed seeing how differently their parents reacted. This story shows that people have different backgrounds and reasoning, but they can come together to stand for something that they all believe in.
Joseph C. 11:00 a.m. MW
Texas State University is a public school with public spaces. The San Marcos 10 had had a right to occupy the space near the Battling Stallions statue with their signs. They were breaking no laws and were not displaying words or imagery that would incite violence, fear, emotional distress or offense. They were peacefully occupying a public space and did not disrupt ongoing or upcoming university operations.
The party responsible for the disruption with the dean and his team of cops for confronting the students. His approach, indeed, did interrupt university operations. Had it not been for his actions, the students would have dispersed by their own freewill and bodily needs.
Regardless, the multiple courts were wrong for allowing the suspensions to stand. Under Tinker v Des Moines, the students presented both opportunity and constitutional valor for the courts to uphold the First Amendment. The fact that the courts threw out their case is testament to the flaws of the judicial branch and system. Only those with money, a team of lawyers and an ability to stroke the attention of 91 individual judges can truly have justice. Everyone else, like the San Marcos 10, are denied access.
Katrina A. (3:30 p.m.)
The article was very enlightening and thoughtful to read. It was very interesting to learn this event occurred at Texas State considering we are all students here. I loved reading all of the stories from 8 of the San Marcos 10 and all of their different reasons for protesting. I especially was moved by Satagaj's story and her experience going on a date with a Vietnam vet and how traumatizing it was. I cannot imagine living during that time and seeing all of those young men die with no end and reason in sight. With that being said, I am saddened and completely disagree with how the university handled the situation. For one, the students were peacefully protesting and showed no violence. The students were exercising their First Amendment right and their actions did not present any clear or immediate harm. I do not believe the students should have been expelled, and it is disappointing to see that they lost their case against the university especially after using Tinker v. Des Moines as a precedent. I do hope that if a similar situation were to occur today, the university would have progressed enough to handle it differently.
Paulo Barrios 11 A.M
This article took me by surprise that such a big intuition would commit such wrongdoing. It's clear to see that we have come far from when this event occurred and are only improving from here on out. The dean that expelled this student should really be questioned for the action do this to a non-violent protest.
Matthew Kokesh 3:30 pm
After going through all of the information provided I was very surprised with the result of the San Marcos 10. I understand this was a different time and I am trying to not use my understanding of our current day rules and put my self in the past. The thing that bothers me is the Thinker v. Des Moines was used in the case and it was thrown out. This was a precedent that was just decided on a very similar case and I find it odd that it was just thrown out. Other than this it was cool to see that a supreme court justice did vote to see the case even if it was only one. Over all I think that this cause was interesting and had potential to change freedom of speech rights forever. I am glad that the school and rules have evolved to allow more use of freedom of speech on campus.
Avery Drewes
Reading about how these students were persecuted after expressing their First Amendment rights to free speech and peaceful assembly is upsetting. These students' open voicing of views did not cause harm to anyone. These students were muted and subjected to severe penalties because the university did not want to be affiliated with particular beliefs on the Vietnam War . While it hasn't happened again, presumably that was the one and only time it would ever happen. The school handled the situation shamefully.
Reading about the 10 students in San Marcos, really reminded me of Tinker v. Des Moines (USSC, 1969). Rightfully so, because these events took place on the same year. But this one hit home. Goes to show that the war affected everyone in The United States. My opinion on this event is that the school president was wrong for what she did. Restricting the students of their rights to voice their opinion. Under-stably, we were in a different time as a country and many people did not have the facts on what was really going on in Vietnam. I see the 10 students as well as the students at Des Moines school district as pioneers. They went against everyone and stood up for what they believe to be right, and I see that as admirable.
Hayven S. Online
This whole situation made me very frustrated. I think the 10 students were treated unfairly by not only the school but also the legal system. Those students had a right to protest, especially if it was quiet and peaceful. Texas State is a public university and must adhere to the federal laws and them suspending the students in my opinion broke the first amendment. But I am glad that Texas State now acknowledges their wrong doings and has taken steps to appreciate and commemorate the protest.
Like many other have said, the way the University handled this situation was quite poor and I am hopeful that if a similar situation arose today, the administration would have a better way of dealing with it. I am a firm believer of having the right to stand for what you believe in and speak up for it when necessary, and I am opposed to people in charge taking that right away from us, especially in a place that harbors new ideas and encourages learning. I believe those 10 students should not have had to face consequences for protesting of any kind.
I have never heard about the San Marcos 10 before and I believe that it should be publicized more because the students should know the history of protests at Texas State. Those 10 students were treated unfairly and had their freedom of speech taken away. I believe that if someone is not doing physical damage to the property or mentally abusing the people around them, then they should be able to protest whatever they please. Yes, they were warned but that does not make up for the fact that the 10 students were punished in a tremendously unfair way. The students could have gotten a demerit or a strike on their record but suspending them and not giving them the credits they had been working hard towards was just not morally right.
I am very disappointed in the way the 10 students were treated. Not only was the situation handled unfairly, but the school and the legal system have distributed shameful consequences. The student of Texas State University has the right to protest, particularly if the protest was unofficial and cordial. The University of Texas State must obey the federal laws and the suspension of the students went against the 1st Amendment and their rights. It is calming that Texas State is aware of its actions and malpractice despite the fact that this situation did not have to occur in the first place.
Chloe B. 11 am Class I
I was surprised to see that Texas State university was not supporting the free speech of the students although there was no violence. It is interesting how ideas evolve with time for free speech.
Dakota D.
11AM
Even today, Americans cringe at the mention of the Vietnam war. The way that the university chose to silence the San Marcos Ten is disappointing, but not surprising for the times and attitudes surrounding the global conflict. President Nixon villianized anti-war protesters and American citizens followed suit. Personally, I agree with Michael Holman, who said “To me, protesting the war is about as patriotic as one can be.”
Logan K. (online)
After reading the article and listening to the NPR broadcast I really feel like the university handled the situation very poorly and severely overreacted regarding the punishment for the protest. The university took away and punished the first amendment right of freedom of speech/protest, although it is not that surprising they did that because of how hard the vietnam war was being pushed as something necessary. That still does not excuse the University's actions towards the San Marcos 10.
Tara Haynie (3:30)
Considering that students were protesting against the Vietnam war in a densely populated public area in the political climate at the time, I was not surprised by the punishment the students faced. Although, as most of the students said, I believe it was unfair and unjust. The school violated these students' First Amendment rights by suspending them from the university for peacefully protesting.
Cecilia B.
(11 am)
In my opinion, the way that administration handled the situation was far too extreme. The San Marcos 10 were peacefully protesting for what they believed was right. They didn't put anyone in harm, say hateful comments, nor made a scene. They simply sat and let their signs and silence speak for itself. Times have changed since then but, I think it's important to know and remember stories like this and the history that they obtain.
Michael W. Online Class
I'm shocked to read about the San Marcos 10. The way Texas State handled this situation is disappointing to me. Despite this event taking place several decades ago, it's no excuse for how it played out in my opinion. The students were not causing any harm and were simply expressing their opinions about the Vietnam war. Not only were they protected under the 1st amendment but Texas State typically presents itself as a school that is politically correct and protects its students.
Theina Garcia (11 am)
These students were just protesting the Vietnam war and got suspended from school. I think it was courageous for those students to protest for their beliefs. Especially when their education was threatened, even though it shouldn't have been. Their expression should've been protected under the first amendment and the action taken was harsh. All in all, I thought Texas State would've been a school that stood with its students, hopefully, that has changed.
I can't believe the way the San Marcos 10 were punished for peacefully protesting the Vietnam war in a public area. The punishment of being suspended from school was absurd. They didn't hurt anyone and were just standing up for their beliefs. I know you have to take into consideration that this happened decades ago when anything seen as anti-patriotic was frowned upon(there was so much pro war propaganda back then). The public opinion and overall culture has drastically changed when it comes to protests, but I still don't think it was right the way Texas State punished the students so harshly. It surprises me because the University is so different now and so open to students voicing their opinions and protecting our first amendment rights. I'm just glad that history remembers these ten peoples' actions as bold, courageous and doing what was right in a time when people and institutions were against them.
I honestly got angry after learning about how the San Marcos 10 were punished for peacefully protesting with signs that included peace signs. The fact that the group of students included a soldier who fought in war is so mind blowing to me. The students didn't even speak, they were simply standing up for what they believed in an appropriate matter. I can't imagine being in their shoes and it is interesting and inspiring to hear that even years later that none of them regretted it. I'm glad that they have received recognition for it years later and that Texas State now is very open to students protesting, speaking their mind and using their first amendment right.
Shelby Showers (ONLINE)
I had never heard of the San Marcos 10, so this was pretty interesting to learn about. Personally, I agree with the majority of people that what the university did to the San Marcos 10 was not okay and defiled their rights. However, considering the time period, what happened is very understandable and I feel as though the university felt that their reputation would be damaged if they didn't do anything regarding the situation. I think it's crazy to look back on this event and physically see how much the university and society has come.
Isaac S. 11 AM Class
After reading the article and listening to the NPR podcast regarding the San Marcos 10, I was incredibly shocked! At the beginning of the article, I was hopeful that their convictions would be overturned, given that Tinker v. Des Moines was such a similar case and had recently been decided! Of course, one significant difference is that the San Marcos 10 actively protested. Maybe this is what gave cause to allow for the convictions to be upheld. However, I do believe that the San Marcos 10 should have been allowed to protest that day. The actions that followed were an insult to democracy.
Sofia G. 3:30
I have never been informed about the San Marcos 10 and i am shocked that they were punished for protesting the Vietnam War. They were suspended from school for simply exercising their right to protest. Their education should have never been involved in this situation and it was even threatened. I do not think that the University did the right thing in this case.
I am highly against the University responding in such a way and punishing the San Marcos 10 by suspending them. While I disagree i can also understand given the circumstances surrounding the sensitive time period of the Vietnam War and why the university punished them. Texas State now allows peaceful protest, which is great, though!
Celeste Parler 3:30
First of all, I'm genuinely amazed how 10 students remained at the protest even when asked to leave. It's not something I could stand by because I would be too afraid of punishment, even if I thought I was doing the right thing. Canceling all of their credits for the last year is a completely unfair punishment for their actions. Given everything we learned about Tinker v Des Moines, I'm appalled that the San Marcos 10 lost in courts. But I'm fortunate that over time, the San Marcos 10 have received more respect for their completely justified protest. Personally, I believe anyone has the right to take advantage of the Stallions, even if it's a message that offends me.
I find the San Marcos 10 to be quite courageous as they stood for what they believed in; utilizing their first amendment right. Even willing to sacrifice and have opposition with their family and friends, despite if they supported their choices or not. I like how Satagaj's dad was a Vietnam War medic and she witnessed all the young men passing away from this war. Witnessing her dad aiding and being apart something she was against. That was even more of a drive for her to speak her passion using freedom of speech right. I also like how her dad agreed with what she choice in saying, "you are protected by the first amendment," do what you feel is right.
I think it's amazing how, though their lawyers addressed the Tinker v. Des Moines it still got shut down. They literally had so much repercussions for their actions, a form of retaliation. They were heroes in my eyes, for not letting fear, or a large institution hold them back from speaking up. They were peaceful as well. Not causing riots, though people had their own choice reactions. I'm glad they got honored years later. Also, that statue now symbolizes freedom of speech encouraging others to speak up! Being that this audio interview was two months prior to 9/11 occurrence, showed how voices matter. I'm glad some went back and got their degrees finished despite the obstacles and effects they may encounter, which meant even getting suspended. Also, one other parent that was paying the tuition for one of the San Marcos !0, though he didn't know they would support him, still let him make a choice of being a part of that protect. I thought that was pretty awesome to see the risks people took to speak up.
Monica V.
Online
Nathan X., 3:30 pm
After reading and listening to the resources above, I don't agree with what consequences the 10 faced. Their protest was on public grounds and it did not disrupt any peace of the school, nor did it cause any harm. If the 10 were to protest today, they would have been protected by the First Amendment. But this goes to show you that as time goes by, things change.
I admire the bravery of the San Marcos 10 for boldly demonstrating their beliefs, despite the consequences they faced. Given the times, I am not surprised they were suspended and their education was affected. During those times, it seemed that exercising your First Amendment right was not well tolerated by law enforcement, local governments, or institutions, even though it was a clear part of our US Constitution. I would expect TXST was considered public property as it is a publicly funded university. Still, there didn’t seem to be any consideration for the First Amendment rights of the students. The response from Texas State at the time seemed to be strictly reactionary, as in, the dean demanded the peaceful protest to stop, and anyone that didn’t listen received punishment. I am glad that these students did what they did and that they still stand behind their actions to this day. In a way, their protest turned into a protest for the upholding and acknowledging the First Amendment rights for students. Without their protest in 1969, we’d have less examples to draw from in showing how we should uphold the First Amendment in today’s society.
Lilia C. 11am
I think it was very unfair for the university to suspend the 10 students just by using their free speech peacefully. Texas State is a public university therefore it shouldn’t have been allowed to suspend the students for a whole year. Protesting the Vietnam War should’ve been protected by the first amendment not giving them the right to do so, especially because it was on public property.
Austin Maybrier 3:30
I believe that the right to these peoples speech was infringed. They were not on private property and they were within their rights as individuals to protest there was no reason to suspend the students. If the university wanted to argue that the students were becoming disruptive to other people trying to learn at the university then I would somewhat understand but given the facts of the situation I believe the suspension to be unjust.
Ezekiel R. 11am
Reading and hearing about this situation made me kind of upset towards how Texas State University had handled it. Those students should've been given the right to protest in peace. They weren't on private property and weren't breaking any rules with the way they were expressing themselves. Suspending these students and kicking them out of having a college is absolutely ridiculous in my opinion, and all because they were just standing up for what they believed in.
Madison Krailo 11am
I think it is unfair for the 10 students because first of all, Texas State is a public University. Second of all, they were not disruptive in the learning environment so why would it be a educational issue through the university. I also don’t think it was right because of the first amendment. I think suspension was wrong for it taking their right to speak freely.
In my opinion, the university handled this situation in a way that was too dramatic. These students were peacefully expressing their first amendment rights. I found it interesting that the case was ruled in favor of Texas State despite previous rulings.
Christian Martinez 11 A.M.
The way the university handled this was so unprofessional. I understand they have rules they have to abide to but to ban those students was not necessary. They did not cause any damage or start any riots. If the situation went out of hand then I can understand but nothing dramatic happened and Texas State is a free speech university according to the schools values. The university should promote free speech and not suppress anyone's voice unless it's an extreme circumstance.
Riley T 11 a.m.
It baffles me that those ten student were expelled over an issue that many people at the time felt the same way about but we’re too scared to say anything. I understand that they have certain rules that they have to follow but it’s frustrating that they had to be removed from school over something that they felt strongly about and had even endured
Ansel G. - Online Class
While I don't believe those ten students should have been expelled, I always try to look at both sides of an issue. Their right to free speech, freedom to peacefully protest, and the right to petition the government was clearly taken from them. While that is wrong, I think the school's intent was to not have it escalate. It was a tumultuous time following a myriad of riots throughout the year prior, 1968; many students protested the war, and they ended up in riots throughout many cities. Following MLKs death in April of 1968, there were many riots throughout several towns. The list of war and race riots is endless.
Perhaps the university wanted to set a precedent. They will not tolerate protests that, in all probability, would turn into violent, chaotic riots. I disagree that the crime fits the punishment, given that it wasn't a crime at all, but at the time, it may have seemed like the most proactive course of action to eliminate the chance of a riot erupting.
However, I ultimately can't reason with the university's decision to remove the present managing editor, Bill Cunningham, simply for covering the story. There is absolutely no good reason why he should be removed. I understand that the school would likely prefer to be impartial to political dilemmas. Still, if the editor was simply putting out a story based on fact, he's just adhering to his responsibility as a journalist.
Beth B 3:30pm
I think its really dumb that these students were suspended. There protest was quite, safe, and respectful and yet they were punished. I'm honestly surprised this is the first time I'm hearing about this. I feel like when most people think of Texas State they think of us as a more liberal leaning school that values free speech deeply. and the fact that the star was kept from writing about it is what really surprises me. This whole thing could've gone to the supreme court and would've probably won considering the precedence.
Chase Oliver 6:35pm
In my opinion, what they did was huge for college students across the country and for the state of Texas. Unfortunately, they had to be expelled and their credits were stripped from them, but their purpose was much bigger than school. By doing so, the San Marcos 10 has paved the way for peaceful protests to happen on campus and for different clubs and organizations to emerge. The stand that they took will never be duplicated and especially for the time period, these 10 students were risking it all. They will always be remembered not only in San Marcos but, in Texas history forever.
Grace Mellette - 3:30pm
The first thing that struck me upon reading the article was the how quickly these ten students were bound together by something so much bigger than them. The line "None of them knew each other prior." Really stood out to me, especially since the premise of the article is that 50 years later those that remain have come back together. What a noble tie that binds these people together.
The next thing that struck me was the severity of the punishment. All 10 suspended for nearly a full academic year, and all of their credits from the past year cancelled? I would be livid.
It's boggling to me, sometimes, just how restricted free speech used to be. I guess I've taken it for granted these days. (Although even today, now that I think about it, there are still instances where peaceful protests are treated as hostile by police force and governmental bodies.) It's dystopian in nature, and to think that something as messy and morally awful as our part in the Vietnam war was protected so highly by governmental instigation, it's no wonder so many of the cases we read about in class have been centered around freedom of speech/press and the Vietnam War.
Connor R. 11 a.m. class
After reading the University Star feature story and listening to the NPR report broadcast, I would say that the ten students at Texas State were not treated fairly after protesting against the Vietnam War on campus.
For instance, the students were protesting peacefully by sitting down next to the Fighting Stallions Statue holding up signs in silence, not disturbing the peace. For that alone, all ten students got suspended until fall 1970 with their credits from the past year canceled.
For this reason, I think the consequences for their actions were unfair. Their suspension was upheld and the students, being suspended for a year, was not right in my opinion since they were exercising their First Amendment right.
Lauren Pena. 3:30
I think for the students to be treated with that kind of consequence is unfair. The students were not causing harm. I think they should have been protected by the first amendment.
Michael J. 3:30 p.m.
I was shocked to learn that these ten students had received any kind of punishment for exercising their First Amendment rights. They went about it in the most peaceful manner possible and still ended up being reprimanded for it. It's very disappointing to see this blemish upon Texas State University's history in the first place.
Nicole Waters Online
While I do believe the protest should technically be protected, I also firmly believe that you get what you get when you decide to actively go against something. The students had to understand the potential of that happening and they didn’t even get the worst punish, a single year would be more like a Sabbatical than anything else. So while the university should’ve left them alone and not punished them, it isn’t surprising given ur actions
olivia davis 11:00 am
This is an event that I have not heard of prior and was surprised that this is something that has happened at Texas State. I don’t think that the students needed to be punished for a peaceful protest and for exercising their first amendment rights. It is a disappointment to hear the way that the university handled the situation, and if anything, show future students or potential students that their voices cannot be heard at the university they attend.
Sabrina Cerda 11:00 am
Before this assignment I had never heard of this incident but I am glad to know hold the knowledge that I do. Overall the school handled the situation very unfair and unjustly - it was clear that their first amendment rights were not being respected. The 10 students were strong and courageous to share their beliefs and support one another in a peaceful manner which was not affecting anyone in a negative way.
Jordan Sullivan 11:00am
Being a firm proponent of free speech, I find it unexcusable to be suspended over it. I feel like we have 1st amendment rights particularly for war, it's a something people feel passionate about. I do understand things can get out of hands and folks may be punished but that may be the price you have to pay for rebellion. Being peaceful is always the goal.
After reviewing the broadcast and the news article, I believe the treatment that the San Marcos 10 received was completely unreasonable. I can honestly say before reviewing this blog post, I had no idea about this story. As individuals in a society we have the right to freedom of speech and I believe that the San Marcos 10 was simply just utilizing and showcasing this right for something that they believed in and stood strong for. For them to be suspended for their actions is not okay at all because they were just conducting a peaceful protest and there was no harm being done to anyone. I will say I'm a little disappointed at the actions Texas State took in this situation, but I do believe that we are continuing to grow and learn with the use of the Free Speech Stallions on the Quad. In no way, do I believe TXST is the perfect place for free speech but we are continuing to grow which gives me hope, that no one else will be treated like the San Marcos 10.
Kylie McEachern (11am)
Texas State is a public university so the first amendment right should be protected no matter what. I do not believe that those students should've been suspended for a year. Literally all they did was voice their thoughts and concerns about the Vietnam War. This is a very direct violation of our 1st amendment and it never should have happened.
Daniel Duran 3:30
I never heard of the San Marcos 10 before. I find it absurd that Texas State officials did not want to acknowledge their first amendment right to speak about the situation as they please. I like that the 10 students were strong and expressed their first amendment rights, however it is a good thing that the university today knows that they were wrong on their behalf. I also feel that the punishment given to the San Marcos 10 was way too harsh, and maybe at most should have got a suspension.
Bandera Barter
Media Law 3:30
I was surprised but not shocked reading this story about the political climate surrounding Texas State during the Vietnam era. Since Lyndon B Johnson was from Texas State I could imagine his alma mater taking exception to students protesting his decisions. What I was shocked about was how harsh their punishments were. I expected a night in jail but the suspension on top of canceling the credits they had already finished sounds wild. Overall I'm glad Texas State is able to own up to its mistakes all these years later and recognize those who did the right thing when they didn't.
Sadly I wasn't shocked to hear this story due to the fact that our first amendment rights have been up for debate for years but I don't think it was fair for the students to get suspended and credits revoked is too harsh for protesting something they believe in. I hadn't heard of these students before but I do believe that their punishment was too harsh, however the University owning up and admiring they were wrong is admirable todays day in age.
Laura Hornung (11 a.m.)
Sadly I wasn't shocked to hear this story due to the fact that our first amendment rights have been up for debate for years but I don't think it was fair for the students to get suspended and credits revoked is too harsh for protesting something they believe in. I hadn't heard of these students before but I do believe that their punishment was too harsh, however the University owning up and admiring they were wrong is admirable todays day in age.
Deondre H. (3:30pm)
Prior to this I was unaware of the San Marcos 10 and their protest. It's a little shocking seeing how suppressed students at a university can be , and threatened with academic consequence's that could later then effect there career. The consequences towards the San Marcos 10 was way to harsh for their extremally peaceful protest actions. Even for the writer of the University Star at the time, Bill Cunningham, to be removed from the paper for attempting to cover the movement of the protest and its participants is ridiculous.
I think this situation was handled very poorly. The repercussions were way too harsh for the students, especially with it being a non-violent protest. This was most definitely a violation of first amendment rights, and this would probably be handled much differently today. The San Marcos 10 were expressing their voice in a nonviolent, un-harmful way. They should be able to fight for things they believe in, without being punished in an extreme measure by the university.
Jordan Glenn 3:30
While reading this story on the San Marcos 10, I was very upset and aside myself, but at the same time I was not surprised. These students were punished for peaceful protesting and their first amendment right was violated. I understand at the time this happened the culture around politics was tense, especially surrounding the Vietnam war time, but free speech is a right that all Americans have and it should never be taken away much less punishable for.
Breanna Evinger (Online)
It was upsetting, in my opinion, having to read this story. I was never aware of the San Marcos 10. To discover that they were only doing a peaceful protest against the Vietnam War in 1969 and not causing any disruption towards others but to be punished for the right to speak out against something, peacefully, is upsetting to read. What was shocking to me, but also not shocking at the same time, was the managing editor Bill Cunningham being removed from The College Star (The Unviersit Star) because he covered the event during 1969. What doesn't surprise me is how he was basically being restricted as a journalist to informing readers of what was happening and I feel like that is still something that is happening to this day, unfortunately.
Tyler Emanuel 3:30 Class
Reading this story, I can't say I was surprised with what the outcome of the situation was. Today we have a lot more freedom in what we can say and what choices we make. Back then it wasn't as socially accepted to speak out against big events like it is today. So when we look at this case today it seems crazy that all that happened to those students, when it is something we do and see everyday now.
Sarah G. - Online Class
I think the San Marcos 10 definitely deserved better. I understand it was a different time, but there was no violence involved and this country is proud about their "freedom of speech," so it makes absolutely no sense to me when people get silenced for voicing their opinions in a peaceful manner just because it goes against the government or any source with more power than the people. It's sad to see that to this day, we still have people treated poorly for peacefully protesting about important issues.
Cittlaly E - Online Class
I believe that the way the University handled the situation was wrong. However, it was a different time back then, and people perceived things differently. Some of the repercussions were extreme and too harsh. For example, college credits from the previous year didn't count, and the students couldn't continue their studies. One of the students was a Vietnam veteran, and the University didn't consider that. The protest didn't engage in violence towards anyone or the school itself, but they still got reprimanded. However, it must be said that their sacrifice wasn't for nothing. It created a better future for the following generations.
Mia L. - Online
I think it's really interesting to see the way that the University handled this situation at the time. I believe this group heavily influenced the way that our school handles protests and free speech in the current day.
Mistakes are made in history all the time, but once a mistake has made there's nothing that can be done to undo it. The fact that they treated this group of students so poorly for vocalizing their opinion on something that was controversial at the time is disappointing and hard to hear. However, it's nice that obvious change has been made in how this day and the actions of the 10 are viewed. The holiday placed in their honor is well deserved and I think more students should know that this occurred.
Hunter Lewis
I don't think it was acceptable for the San Marcos 10 to receive the treatment that they did as there was no impedance of the education process. Texas State is also a public space and things like this should be allowed to be said according to Tinker v Des Moines.
John Wingo - 11a (MW)
Personally from a devils advocate point of view the San Marcos 10 creates great president. A merit of social justice of freedom of speech. The San Marcos 10 we’re not treated fairly however compared to the 60’s the behavior is and was common for protests imposing war. Was is one of the very reasons politicians are so hated. Fueling and imposing one’s thoughts and believe for society.
Further more I stand in solidarity with the San Marcos 10 for there work and activism. Without it today the very statue may not be a designation for true free speech. No matter how extreme (non violent) we as TXST student have a voice. We have a voice beyond social media. But a direct voice with our president, board and investors and more. Being a NCAA division one school and rising tier it is important that as students we can have a direct and vocal horn to voice our concerns as students.
Niya M 11am
It's super unacceptable to hear how the San Marcos 10 were treated for literally just sitting there silently with signs. They absolutely did not deserve suspension or having their credits cancelled for the whole semester. Texas State is a public university and it's crazy that they were able to get away with not allowing the students their first amendment rights. I also think it's really cool that they made such a massive impact for just sitting there that we still celebrate them 50 years later.
Logan D 11am
I feel like it was wrong and unacceptable for Texas State University to suspend the students. Nobody was causing violence or disrupting the learning environment therefore it should have been allowed. Texas State is also a public university allowing people to express their ideas freely, so this should have not been a problem.
Diego G 3:30
It’s interesting to see how things have changed since then. I can’t imagine the amount of courage it took for those 10 to do what they did, but they carried through and now I feel that the voices of students today are better because of it.
My immediate reaction is that the way the University handled the situation was completely wrong, but I trust that this is not the way they would've handled this today. However you can't be that surprised based on how things were back then. The war was surrounded with propaganda which was combated with protests across the country. But precedents were already set in previous court cases; because this was a completely peaceful protest, especially because it was conducted by college students on their public campus, it should have been allowed.
MAcayla McCann - Online course
I definitely think that they university did not handle the protest in 1969. The San Marcos 10 that felt compelled to take a stand against the Vietnam War were not violent during their protest. Additionally, Bill Cunningham was simply doing his job in reporting events that concerned students at the university. So, no, I don't believe firing him was a decision, but I understand this was over 50 years ago now and would not be something todays university journalists would face the same repercussions for. I suppose it was a different time and probably was not as accepted among society to have a different opinion than most.I see much more protests on campus now that aren't necessarily violent, but are not exactly as quiet and peaceful as the San Marcos 10. I think it is good that the University now allows young students to have a voice and raise awareness against current policies and decisions that are prominent today.
Kera D. - Online
It's evidently clear, at least in my opinion, that Texas State poorly handled this situation with the San Marcos 10. During the time of the Vietnam War, there was an extreme disconnect and difference in opinion between the older generation and the college-age range at that time. While freedom of speech has always been a fundamental right, this war was widely hated by tons of people in America, but protesting and speaking up against the war wasn't encouraged or typically respected. After reading through these students' stories and listening to the podcast, I have the utmost respect for them and their diverse backgrounds. They came from all walks of life and all held the same strong values of protesting this war for both ethical and moral reasons, and although they were reprimanded for taking a stand, they all stood firm in that decision and have become icons in San Marcos even fifty years later. I hope to use my voice to stand up for injustices as I continue to grow into a young woman.
Aaron Hand - 11 am
I don’t believe the University was in the right for expelling the San Marcos 10 after they protested against the Vietnam War. Even though the country was split about the Vietnam war, public institutions should stand by the people who help keep the university alive, I.e. the students. Given how liberal minded Texas State is now a days I’m surprised they weren’t on the student’s side. If protests were had against the Afghan war after 9/11 on Texas State I believe the reaction would be different from the university, even though 9/11 was a very visible attack on the U.S, students should hold the right to speak out against whatever they dislike when it concerns them.
After reading the San Marcos 10 I am in such disbelief because Texas State violated The First Amendment" a right that is granted to all people. I thought it was needed to talk about the San Marcos 10 even today because Texas State University is well known for student protesting. During that time I can understand the frustration of the students because hundreds of Americans were being killed and nobody is taking a stand and speaking up about it. I think this is why Texas State became such a liberal school because of the San Marcos 10 protest. They are trailblazers for students.
Marlenne H. 11am
It's crazy to think the way the university handled the situation, I don't find it's fair that 10 students were suspended for standing up in what they believe in. On top of that, they did not want to count their credits which sounds extreme to me. Especially since they protested in peace, they were not causing harm to anyone I can only imagine how much courage that took. I love the impact these students made then and now 50 years later!
Jack Gerrard 111m
The wildest part of this entire story is how the journalist from the university star got kicked out for simply covering the story. The events was peaceful with students sitting around the fighting stallions which confuses me as to why the protest was such a big deal. I didn't research if there were laws against antiwar protest but I know for a fact that a lot of them happened so I really want to know why our school was so strict towards these 10 students and why they couldn't sit there in peace.
Jacob F. 11 am
I think it was unfair for those 10 students to be suspended especially because their protest didn't disturb any students. I think their first amendment was violated because they were protesting the Vietnam war, and weren't disrupting anyone, any bodies learning ability.
Arthur Fairchild 3:30pm
Under the first amendment peaceful free speach is allowed, the 10 students were not harming anyone or threatening people they were protesting a war that was already massivly unpopular. Hearing that the dean only gave the students a few minutes of his time before suspending them was shocking. I think their suspension was not only wrongful but illegal.
William Daniels online
I believe that the university handled this situation terribly wrong. For as the time period that it occurred you have to take things in consideration. The protest that the 10 held were protected by the first amendment so to see that the case was in texas state favor just overall shocked me. in conclusion thought the san marcos 10 were right about their beliefs. also this was my first time hearing about this incident and it's honestly interesting.
Jerry Walker
11am Class
I believe the situation with the San Marcos 10 was a blatant misuse of authority. The students were being peaceful and also the whole country had similar feelings about this war. What surprised me most is how little time the dean gave them before suspension but its still cool to see the impact these courageous people from my university made stood for something even in the face of adversity. The University got away with handling this in a very poor way something I doubt they could get away with now it almost feels illegal what they did to the 10
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