Is free speech under threat? Discussion group raises questions about first amendment rights

Taylor Walding Variety Editor American Downfall, a discussion group led by Luke Ritter, a lecturer of history, organized a discussion on the concept of free speech and its consequences, particularly focusing on whether free speech is under threat on college campuses around the United States. Before the discussion, Ritter took an anonymous poll through Kahoot to survey the opinions of those present. According to the poll, 12 people believed free speech is under threat in the United States, whereas eight did not think so. Caleb Cummings, a junior history and…

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Bridging the gap: how to connect cross-culturally

Grace Kish Contributor Despite a slight decline in the number of incoming international students this year, Troy University is one of the most ethnically diverse colleges in the South. According to Joe McCall, a lecturer of history who has been involved with the international program for decades, one out of every eight people you meet on campus is from another country. McCall said there are roughly 65 countries that are actively represented at Troy. Chancellor Jack Hawkins Jr. has observed that 70 to 80 languages can be heard just from…

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Piddlers preserve culture through stories

Emma Daniel Staff Writer Young and old filled up the Trojan Center Theatre three times Saturday to see the 12th Annual Pike Piddlers Storytelling Festival, featuring anecdotes from “Southern hill country,” as described by various speakers. “There’s history in it; these stories are passed down, some from great-grandparents from the hills, and some from their ancestors,” said Henry Hudley, a member of the Brundidge Historical Society. Before the main event, a trio entertained the crowd with Southern gospel and bluegrass music, encouraging the audience to sing along. “I think these…

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