Yale Professor Jason Stanley Leaves U.S. Citing Threats to Academic Freedom

Yale University professor Jason Stanley, an expert on fascism, announced he is leaving the U.S. for Canada, citing a 'brutal attack' on free speech and academic freedom under the Trump administration. He expressed concerns about a culture of fear on college campuses, with universities capitulating to political pressures, particularly targeting non-citizens involved in student activism. Stanley emphasized that his decision was motivated by the safety of his children, who are Black and Jewish, and his desire to send a warning about the rising authoritarianism in the U.S. His remarks highlight a broader trend of faculty and students facing repercussions for expressing dissenting views, particularly regarding pro-Palestinian protests. He plans to teach at the University of Toronto's Munk School while continuing to advocate against fascism from abroad. Despite the personal cost of relocating, Stanley remains committed to his work and activism against oppressive policies.