Professor Watson, thank you for another astute analysis of a complicated political situation focusing on the heart of academia. First, on a macro level, I think it’s instructive when viewing this matter that people separate their feelings about Prof. Gay’s conspicuous gaffe on antisemitism, with the conservative right’s unabashed and shameful racist campaign against DEI. The latter of which is not a mistake but a malicious attack on people of color and other minority groups.
Second, on a micro level, one can loathe Rep. Stefanik while still opposing the comments on genocide by Prof. Gay—which is my position. Perhaps in due time Harvard can reconsider appointing Prof. Gay as president again, or to another high-profile leadership position.