Northwestern professor accuses school of canceling his classes over his pro-Palestinian support

(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — A professor at Northwestern University accuses the school of suspending him from teaching because of his support for demonstrations opposing the war in Gaza.

Steven Thrasher, PhD, said he believes Northwestern canceled his journalism classes this fall, because he stood between university police and a pro-Palestinian encampment on campus last April.

His attorney, Rima Kapitan, said Northwestern waited months to discipline Thrasher, and only did it after members of a Congressional committee criticized him and asked the university what actions it would take.

“Dr. Thrasher's right to speak as a professor has been challenged by Northwestern's disciplinary investigation. And also the right of universities to allow its professors to do their job and to engage in scholarly discussion is at risk if Northwestern caves whenever Congress expresses dissatisfaction with what its faculties say.”

University officials have declined to comment, because they say this is a "personnel" matter.

Listen to WBBM Newsradio now on Audacy!
Sign up and follow WBBM Newsradio
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | TikTok