Community Spotlight – Gerry Yokota, 28 September (Video Available)
Freedom of Speech on the Japanese University Campus
Gerry Yokota, Professor Emerita Osaka University
Too often I hear students complaining that their freedom of speech is being suppressed. I propose a community discussion sharing our sense of the atmosphere on our campuses. Is there robust exchange of views on controversial issues, or is there a sense that risky issues are taboo? Isn’t support for freedom of speech on campus essential for educating global citizens who are capable of expressing their views? If they do not get this practice now, how will they be prepared to deal with controversy in the real world after graduation? What is the best way to support them?