Most universities would ideally like to do both, to value both equally, but it simply isn’t possible in all circumstances. If one prioritizes defending small or otherwise vulnerable groups from being silenced through intimidation in this way, the university will have to silence others. If one elevates allowing all to voice their opinion to the highest place, then some will use that liberty to seek to scare and bully others into silence. Hate speech creates a situation in which one must choose between these commitments. This last example is analogous to the cases currently confronting universities as they navigate commitments to both uncensored free expression and the defense of historically marginalized voices.
