Signs criticizing immigrants, minorities and Muslims were discovered Monday on three buildings and at least one utility pole at the University of Texas.
One of the signs, on a pole along San Jacinto Boulevard just north of 23rd Street, implored people to "imagine a Muslim-free America." A graduate student in history photographed it and posted the photo on Twitter, adding the question “Hate speech or free speech?”
UT spokesman J.B. Bird said university staff members discovered signs on the outside of the Student Activity Center, the College of Liberal Arts and the Sanchez Building containing political messages aimed at immigrants, minorities and Muslims.
"The signs, some of which were affixed with adhesive, are in the process of being removed. They're very hard to get off." Bird said.
"The university vigorously supports the free speech, but posting signs of any nature on the outside of university buildings is not allowed under campus rules," he said. "Additionally, as per policy, only students and student organizations are allowed to post signage in approved spaces on campus. The campus is reserved for the use of students, faculty, staff and their invited guests. Any person coming onto campus damaging or defacing university property is subject to criminal prosecution."
UT President Gregory L. Fenves responded on Twitter: “When some try to divide us, Longhorns stand together. Diversity and inclusion are among our top priorities."
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