The University of Michigan late Wednesday night released a statement saying that “it was a mistake to cancel” a showing of Clint Eastwood’s controversial movie “American Sniper” and that the film will be shown as originally scheduled. “The initial decision to cancel the movie was not consistent with the high value the University of Michigan places on freedom of expression and our respect for the right of students to make their own choices in such matters,” E. Royster Harper University of Michigan vice president for student life said in a statement released about 10:45 p.m. Wednesday. It’s just the latest in the choice to screen the film on campus.
It was originally scheduled to be shown at the “UMix Late Night” program Friday night. Then nearly 300 protesters spoke out, saying the film perpetuates “negative and misleading stereotypes” against Muslims. After that happened, the school’s Center for Campus Involvement said it wouldn’t be showing the movie until an undetermined date when there could be a panel that was focused on reflection and dialogue. That set off another round of criticism and even prompted a tweet from Michigan Football Coach Jim Harbaugh: “Michigan Football will watch “American Sniper”! Proud of Chris Kyle & Proud to be an American & if that offends anybody then so be it!” MORE
