Progressive Activists Are Sometimes on the Wrong Side of History
Thinking otherwise can enable the left’s worst instincts, as a speech at the University of Michigan’s commencement showed.
TL;DR
- A University of Michigan commencement speech by Derek Peterson praised pro-Palestinian activists, linking them to historical movements for justice.
- The author argues this framing is selective, ignoring instances where progressive activism has been on the wrong side of history.
- The tendency to view progressive activists as inherently righteous can lead to a failure to scrutinize their actions and positions.
- Examples of problematic actions by pro-Palestine activists at the University of Michigan include vandalism, intimidation, and endorsement of the October 7th attacks.
- The author criticizes the idea that progressive activists form a 'priestly class' above criticism.
- Peterson's speech is seen as commandeering a common space for a contested segment of the community, demonstrating how a belief in one's own righteousness can license abuse of power.