VALDOSTA, GA (WTXL) - The president of Valdosta State University has released a statement regarding the recent on-campus protests involving an Air Force Veteran who was handcuffed for trying to take the American flag away from protesters who were trying to step on it.
VSU President William J. McKinney says Friday, April 24th will be a "day of reaffirmation" for the university, in hopes of highlighting the values of the school.
McKinney spoke directly on the protest situation, saying university officials are keeping tabs on the issue:
"The safety of our students, faculty, and staff is our highest priority. Therefore, while we protect peoples' civil liberties, we will be vigilant in ensuring order is maintained. We are actively monitoring the situation and continue to work closely with local law enforcement. Any action by any individual or group that jeopardizes the safety or disrupts the orderly operations of the university will be dealt with swiftly and justly."