MINNEAPOLIS — United States Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett is visiting the University of Minnesota as a part of the 2023 Robert A. Stein '61 Lecture. The event, even before it kicks off Monday evening, has drawn criticism from some students who say they do not want the Justice's voice on campus.
However, University of Minnesota professor Larry Jacobs said Barrett's visit is a part of a bigger picture. Jacobs, along with former Republican Congressman Vin Weber is leading the "Conservative Voices" series at the Humphrey School of Public Affairs. He said the goal of "Conservative Voices" is to bring diverse opinions to campus.
"Justice Barrett is coming into a series that's had two justices who were appointment by Republicans and two justices who were appointed by Democrats," Jacobs said. "So this is a series that's tried to reflect the diversity of perspective on the United States Supreme Court."
Jacobs said he acknowledges some students feel harmed by the Justice's decisions, and he welcomes that disagreement.
"They're going to have their right to vocalize that disagreement even passionately," Jacobs said. "I think we're going to see very strong loud protests tonight; we may see a number of empty seats in the auditorium."
He says that's due in part to students who disagree with Coney Barrett buying tickets and pulling a no-show.
Which he called "obnoxious," but also a "creative use of free speech."
"One rule for vibrant debate is not allowing those who oppose to shut down the conversation," Jacobs said. "The university has put a lot of time and thought into ensuring that the space for the protesters, that Justice Barrett will make her presentation in a safe environment in which she will not be interrupted."
"This is a good day for conservative and Republican students who have been waiting for more opportunities to hear speakers they agree with," he added.
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