San Jose State Professor Suspended for violating the Collective Bargaining Agreement

San Jose State University campusPhoto byBing Copilot

On May 24, 2024, Professor Sang Hea Kil, a faculty adviser of Students for Justice in Palestine, received an email that would dramatically alter her professional life. The accusation? - She had violated the Collective Bargaining Agreement by acting as a liaison between pro-Palestinian campus protestors and the university administration.

The allegations against Dr. Kil were serious. She was accused of encouraging students to violate university policies, harassing her colleagues, and creating a risk of harm by publicly identifying and posting inflammatory comments about a colleague.

Dr. Kil vehemently denied these accusations, categorically refuting the claims. She pointed out that some incidents described in the email were entirely fictional, such as marching students through the REC center or ordering them to camp. She felt she was denied due process, as she wasn't provided with a report summarizing the evidence against her, which should have been part of the California Faculty Association's contract with the California State University system.

The suspension of Professor Kil raises several vital questions. She believes that San Jose State University launched this campaign to suppress academic freedom. Her claim is supported by the fact that triangulated witnesses can easily refute many of the accusations.

The question arises: Is there an attempt to silence dissenting voices on campus?

Tracie Stafford, an executive board member of the California Democratic Party, emphasized the importance of free speech. Universities are supposed to be bastions of free expression, but balancing that with employment considerations can be challenging. Stafford warned against using the current volatile political climate as an excuse to suppress freedom of speech, especially at universities.

The incident highlights the role of student activism. Passionate students often take to the streets to express their views, and professors sometimes find themselves caught in the crossfire.

How should universities handle such situations?

The outcome of this case remains uncertain, but several scenarios could unfold. If investigations reveal the accusations were baseless, Dr. Kil might be reinstated with an apology. The suspension could continue if the evidence supports the allegations, leading to further legal battles.

Regardless of the outcome, this incident should spark broader conversations about academic freedom, free speech, and the delicate balance between expressing opinions and maintaining professional conduct.

In the meantime, Professor Kil remains on administrative leave, seeking guidance from her union and possibly legal counsel. The academic community is watching San Jose State University to see how this situation unfolds.

What do you think? Should universities prioritize academic freedom even in challenging employment situations?

Let's continue the conversation!

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San Jose State professor suspended after acting as liaison for campus protestors.