Thousands Sign Petition to Cancel Kamala Harris Roast Event at USC
South Carolina — Thousands of individuals have signed a petition demanding the cancellation of a controversial event scheduled to be held at the University of South Carolina (USC). The event, organized by student-led group Uncensored America, is titled “The Roast of 2024 Presidential Nominee and Vice President Kamala Harris”. The event has sparked concerns of promoting offensive and inappropriate content, with critics condemning its potential to encourage “white supremacy”.
Details of the Controversial Event
Amid considerable backlash, the event is set to feature far-right British political commentator Milo Yiannopoulos and Proud Boys founder Gavin McInnes as guest speakers. The event’s scheduling has stirred controversy, with criticism arising from the explicit spelling chosen for Vice President Kamala Harris’s first name in event promotional material.
The controversial roast is planned to take place at USC’s Russell House on September 18. Thus far, a petition on Change.org against the event has drawn 2,585 signatures. Its organizers have expressed shock and disappointment, stating, “We are shocked and disappointed to witness the university’s decision to allow the hosting of an event with inappropriate and sexist promotion.”
Reactions and Responses
Public outcry against the event was recently amplified through the actions of Bakari Sellers, a former state lawmaker and USC Law School alumnus. Sellers brought attention to the issue, sharing the event invitation widely and demanding accountability from the university.
In response, USC officials have emphasized that the university is not sponsoring the event. They affirmed the right of the student group to hold it, reflecting the institution’s commitment to free speech. Despite the controversy, the Uncensored America founder Sean Semanko described the event as “a fun, lighthearted comedy show where we bring some joy to campus.”
Upcoming Event Details
Unless canceled, the roast event is slated to begin at 8 pm on September 18 and will be open to the public. As tension continues to rise around the controversial occasion, opponents and supporters alike await the university’s next move in this unfolding issue.
