Statement regarding recent protests

Chancellor John Wiley and Phil Certain, College of Letters and Science dean, issued the statement below following protests condemning Professor Alfred McCoy, author of the 1972 book “The Politics of Heroin,” which criticizes General Vang Pao for his role in the Southeast Asian opium market.

“The complaints against Professor Alfred McCoy serve as an important reminder that this university has a tradition and responsibility to protect the academic freedom of every member of the campus community.

“Though the conclusions our faculty and staff draw from research and historical data sometimes prove unpopular, those conclusions are the very foundation of the academic freedom we cherish.

“This university will continue to support our faculty, staff and students in their scholarly endeavors, just as we recognize the rights of those who disagree to make their voices heard. We see no reason to take any action to influence Professor McCoy’s views in any way.”