The Jefferson Council has received a response to its inquiries why a speech at the University of Virginia law school featuring Erin Hawley, senior counsel for the Alliance Defending Freedom, was canceled.
The Federalist Society made the decision “out of respect for the tragedy that occurred Sunday night,” said Julia Jeanette Mroz, president of the UVa chapter. “As a student group, we felt it appropriate to follow the University’s lead in designating today a Day of Observance.”
Left-wing student groups had denounced the speech on the grounds that the Alliance is a “hate” group and Hawley’s presence would make members of the LGBQT+ community feel uncomfortable.
Those denunciations were not a factor in the decision to cancel the event. “No other circumstances bore on this decision,” said Mroz, adding that she hopes can be rescheduled to the spring semester.
We have updated our post about the event, accordingly.
So, Mr. Hawley’s planned speech cancellation is now about sensitivity to appropriate timing in light of the tragic killings. To help readers evaluate fairly, please include the date originally scheduled – for those of us not familiar with all the details.
The speech was scheduled for 5:30 p.m. today.
Appropriate.