Protect the freedom of speech on American campuses - Reinstate Michael Hook!


Protect the freedom of speech on American campuses - Reinstate Michael Hook!
The Issue
Help us Reinstate Professor Michael Hook at the University of South Dakota!
Many loyal students from around the USD campus are distraught after learning about the recent situation with Michael Hook. Professor Hook made a huge impact on students of all majors with his compassion. Students were safe with him, as he always made sure to check in on how they were doing. He always made sure to get to know his students, caring deeply about what they needed to improve on and what their strengths were. This allowed for an environment in which everyone in the class could feel comfortable. His criticism in art was constructive, allowing students to learn from their choices and build upon what they've created, and his grading was fair and effective.
Michael Hook was put on administrative leave and relieved of his duties after South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden and House Speaker Jon Hansen ordered USD to fire Hook. The state officials saw a post that was made on his personal Facebook account, which was in no way affiliated with the University, and took immediate action.
Professor Michael Hook was punished for exercising the First Amendment of the United States Constitution. This gives our campus the idea that we are not allowed to use our right to the Freedom of Speech.
Help the students of USD support Professor Hook and his rights, along with our own. #bringbackhook
The Issue
Help us Reinstate Professor Michael Hook at the University of South Dakota!
Many loyal students from around the USD campus are distraught after learning about the recent situation with Michael Hook. Professor Hook made a huge impact on students of all majors with his compassion. Students were safe with him, as he always made sure to check in on how they were doing. He always made sure to get to know his students, caring deeply about what they needed to improve on and what their strengths were. This allowed for an environment in which everyone in the class could feel comfortable. His criticism in art was constructive, allowing students to learn from their choices and build upon what they've created, and his grading was fair and effective.
Michael Hook was put on administrative leave and relieved of his duties after South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden and House Speaker Jon Hansen ordered USD to fire Hook. The state officials saw a post that was made on his personal Facebook account, which was in no way affiliated with the University, and took immediate action.
Professor Michael Hook was punished for exercising the First Amendment of the United States Constitution. This gives our campus the idea that we are not allowed to use our right to the Freedom of Speech.
Help the students of USD support Professor Hook and his rights, along with our own. #bringbackhook
Victory
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Petition created on September 12, 2025