SCHNEIDER STATEMENT ON PROTEST AT COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY

WASHINGTON - Rep. Brad Schneider (IL-10) released the following statement in response to a May 7th protest at Columbia that the university said caused "substantial chaos" and resulted in the arrest of nearly 80 people:

"Last night's library occupation at Columbia is another example of people crossing the line from legitimate protest to unacceptable violence and illegality.

"Free speech is a right that must always be respected and jealously protected. The right to free speech is not, however, a license to violence or occupation of public spaces. Columbia has appropriately established time, place, and manner policies to ensure students' rights to both free speech and to be safe and secure in their studies and campus experience.

"The arrested students have the right to due process and if found guilty of violating university policies or New York laws should face the consequences, including expulsion if appropriate."

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