News Local/State

Report: Prof. Salaita Cancels UIC Address

 

Professor Steven Salaita, whose comments about Israel on Twitter led to the revoking of his appointment at the University of Illinois’ Urbana campus, has reportedly cancelled a speech at the Chicago campus today.

The News-Gazette and Chicago Tribune both report the UIC appearance is off. 

The Tribune reports that could be a sign that Salaita and the U of I are discussing a financial settlement. 

He’s still scheduled to speak this week at the University of Chicago, Columbia College, and DePaul University.

At its meeting in Urbana September 11tth - on an 8 to 1 vote- U of I Trustees backed Chancellor Phyllis Wise’s decision not to hire Salaita. 

The professor was expected to sue the university.    

His attorney, Anand Swaminathan, issued the following statement regarding the UIC speaking engagement:

"Professor Salaita remains steadfast in his desire to be reinstated to his tenured position at the University, whether that is done voluntarily or through the legal process.  Because of Professor Salaita’s desire to work with the students, faculty and administration at Illinois, we believe it is in his best interests at this point to avoid any perception that speaking on campus could be viewed as antagonistic. Professor Salaita is deeply grateful to all those who were involved in organizing the event at University of Illinois at Chicago, and he is hopeful that there will be an opportunity to speak with them in the near future."