Letters & Correspondence

Letter regarding the no-platforming of Richard Dawkins at Trinity College, Dublin

Summary

The College Historical Society of Trinity College, Dublin – known as the Hist – recently disinvited Prof Richard Dawkins from speaking at the Society. Their Auditor Brid O’Donnell issued a statement citing his “opinions on Islam and sexual assault” and apologising for having invited him. This is part of a trend: their recent pro-BLM “Apology Statement” singles out Nigel Farage as someone whose views should never have been heard at the Hist.

On learning of Prof Dawkins’ disinvitation, we wrote a letter to Brid O’Donnell pointing out their legal obligations and urging them to consider the value of open debate in a free society – a lesson today’s students seem increasingly unwilling to learn. You can read that letter below.