RDI Leaders Affirm Free Speech on Campuses, Prioritizing Principle Over Disagreement

Uriel Epshtein, CEO of the Renew Democracy Initiative (RDI), and Garry Kasparov, the organization's chairman, have publicly underscored their unwavering commitment to free speech on college campuses, even when confronted with student perspectives they strongly oppose. Their recent statement emphasizes a foundational belief in upholding democratic principles above partisan or ideological divides.

In a social media post, Epshtein articulated this core philosophy, stating, "I’m particularly proud of this effort because it highlights one of the key reasons I joined @Renew_Democracy to begin with: to put principle over party." He further clarified the organization's stance on student expression, adding, "> @Kasparov63 and I both disagree strongly with the students but we will defend their right to be wrong!" This position highlights RDI's dedication to the marketplace of ideas.

The Renew Democracy Initiative, a non-partisan, non-profit organization established in 2017 by former World Chess Champion and Russian dissident Garry Kasparov, is dedicated to advancing liberal democratic values globally. RDI's mission involves confronting authoritarianism, amplifying the voices of dissidents, and fostering robust public discourse. Their "Frontlines of Freedom" program frequently engages with students on university campuses to discuss the importance of freedom and expression.

Kasparov, known for his outspoken advocacy for human rights and democracy, has consistently argued that a free society must tolerate the expression of even highly disagreeable or "abhorrent" views. Both leaders maintain that the suppression of speech, regardless of its content, poses a significant threat to democratic institutions. They advocate for countering objectionable ideas with more speech and open debate, rather than censorship.

This defense of student expression by Epshtein and Kasparov is not an endorsement of specific viewpoints but a steadfast commitment to the foundational tenets of liberal democracy. Their stance reinforces the idea that the strength of a democratic society lies in its ability to protect the rights of all individuals to express themselves, ensuring that fundamental freedoms are preserved even amidst profound ideological disagreements.