U of Manitoba donor criticizes valedictorian’s ceasefire speech

Article content

A valedictorian’s speech on the Israel-Hamas war has sparked controversy, prompting condemnation from the dean of the University of Manitoba’s medical school and a major donor’s son.

Ernest Rady accused the valedictorian, Dr. Gem Newman, of hate speech, leading to heated debates over free speech and political correctness.

Dr. Peter Nickerson, the medical school dean, expressed disappointment over the divisive speech delivered by Newman at the graduation ceremony.

Newman defended his statements, calling for solidarity with Indigenous people in Canada and Palestinians, and highlighting the casualties in Gaza due to the conflict.

In response to the uproar, Newman reiterated his stance on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and urged others to advocate for what they believe in.

The controversy raises pertinent questions about freedom of expression and the boundaries of acceptable discourse in academic settings.