Texas State University Reconsiders Cancelled Black History Exhibit Amid Free Speech Concerns
San Marcos, TX – Texas State University is facing criticism from civil rights organizations after initially canceling a planned visit by the Black History 101 Mobile Museum and later indicating that the decision may be reconsidered.
The museum, a traveling exhibition featuring historical artifacts and educational displays documenting African American history, had been invited to campus for a Black History Month event. The invitation was later withdrawn, prompting concern from advocacy groups who argue the decision raises issues related to free expression and academic freedom.
The ACLU of Texas sent a letter to university leadership stating that rescinding the invitation could amount to viewpoint discrimination, particularly at a public institution. The letter argues that hosting an exhibit focused on Black history is protected educational speech and should not be restricted based on political considerations.
University officials said the cancellation was made at the departmental level and clarified that the decision was not required under Texas Senate Bill 17, a 2023 law that limits certain diversity, equity, and inclusion programs at public universities. A university spokesperson stated that the law does not prohibit instruction, events, or guest speakers related to race or history and emphasized that Texas State continues to plan Black History Month programming.
Civil rights organizations, including the NAACP Legal Defense Fund and the Intercultural Development Research Association, have urged the university to reinstate the museum visit, arguing that preemptively canceling educational programming due to perceived political pressure risks undermining the university’s role as a forum for open inquiry.
The museum’s founder, Khalid el-Hakim, said he has not yet received confirmation that the event will be rescheduled but remains open to returning to campus if invited. The Black History 101 Mobile Museum has been hosted by colleges, universities, and community institutions across the United States.
The situation has drawn broader attention as public universities across Texas and other states navigate how to comply with new legislation while maintaining commitments to academic freedom and free speech. Observers note that the outcome at Texas State could serve as a reference point for how institutions interpret and apply state restrictions without curtailing educational content.
