Conservative journalist Rich Lowry, editor-in-chief of the National Review, will speak in Terre Haute next month after Indiana State University cancelled his speech on campus.
The post-election conversation will be hosted by State Sen. Greg Goode (R-Terre Haute) Nov. 21 at the Terre Haute Convention Center.
ISU officials cited campus and community safety concerns for canceling Lowry’s speech, scheduled for Sept. 30.
The cancellation followed Lowry’s appearance on The Megyn Kelly Show. He was accused of using a racial slur when discussing Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio.
Read more: ISU cancels speech by conservative journalist, citing security threats
Sen. Goode said in a press release he was disappointed by ISU’s decision.
"I also believe that had the university reached out to law enforcement partners at the local, county, and state levels, any security concerns alleged by the university would have been easily addressed,” he said. “Since the university’s decision, I have been in communication with Mr. Lowry to offer my help, and I am deeply grateful for the grace he has demonstrated and for his commitment to coming to Terre Haute to join our community in a respectful, civil discourse."
ISU declined comment on the event.
Goode said 400 people reserved a spot at the event within the first two days of its announcement.
“It’s a strong statement in favor of free expression and a pointed rejection of the illiberalism and bad faith of Indiana State, an institution that purports to stand for free inquiry," Lowry said. “As Americans, we should always favor fair play and robust public debate.”
The event opens at 5:30 p.m. and Lowry will speak at 7. The event is free to the public with reservations recommended.
