University of the Pacific (UOP) has agreed to host a right-wing, anti-trans speaker in March, sparking outrage among students, staff, and faculty who argue that hate speech should not be given a platform on campus.
UOP’s administration approved a talk titled “The Truth About Transgenderism” by Turning Point USA, a nonprofit known for targeting college campuses to spread right-wing ideology. Once news of the event spread, the campus community quickly mobilized. Faculty, staff, and students launched a petition demanding the university cancel the event, emphasizing that allowing it to proceed directly contradicts the college’s stated commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable environment. Over 2,000 people have signed the petition so far.
In response, the administration hastily organized a poorly advertised town hall to hear concerns. Despite the lack of promotion, the campus community packed the room, making their opposition clear.
UOP students, staff, and faculty have sent an unmistakable message: the truth about transgender people at UOP is that they are supported by their community—even if not by the administration.
