‘Extreme’ prison sentences for anti-ICE protesters may have ‘chilling effect’
Activists accused of being members of antifa received decades-long sentences this week for involvement in a protest gone awry.
Free Speech
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Dallas Observer announces a new merch collab with artist Joe Skilz
Recurrent contributions not only keep our news accessible, but they can get you a cool tote bag too.
A Texas Law Student Was Disciplined After Charlie Kirk’s Murder. Now She’s Suing
The lawsuit claims that the investigation violated the student’s First Amendment rights, ultimately “betraying the legacy” of Kirk.
An Act of Censorship Leaves UNT Facing an Identity Crisis
The removal of an exhibit and the silence from officials that followed have ruptured fault lines at a university that has built a reputation as an artists’ enclave.
James Broadnax’s Pivotal Death Penalty Case Could Change How Lyrics Are Used in Court
Travis Scott and Young Thug are a few of the rappers backing the Dallas man convicted for a 2008 murder.
Embattled North Texas Universities Still Navigating Political Pressure, Cutting DEI Programs
The University of North Texas has announced a nearly $50 million budget shortfall, while UT System schools are to avoid ‘controversial’ subjects when possible.
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New Reports Paint Texas as Ground Zero for Conservative College Takeover
From attacks on DEI to strengthening state leaders’ hold on university governance, Texas’ conservative college shift has been a long time coming.
Texas Takes Break From Banning Books, Will Now Mandate Certain Ones
The Texas Board of Education is considering requiring titles both widely accepted and controversial.
UT Dallas Punishes Student Journalist for Adding Disclaimer to Antisemitism Article
The former student paper editor is appealing the decision, and warns the punishment comes amid a free speech crackdown on campus.
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Texas A&M System ‘Muzzles’ Faculty on Race, Gender Ideology Lessons
The new policy passed unanimously despite one historian warning that it would prevent her from teaching lessons on the Holocaust.
Texas Set To Make Parenting Your Kid’s iPad Even More Exhausting
If you thought it was annoying when your kids asked to play games on your phone before, get ready.
North Texas School Librarians Who Faced Criminal Investigation Speak Out
A new documentary follows the local librarians who were targeted for – get this – lending books to schoolchildren.
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Confusion Ensues as TEA Ties DFW Schools to Charlie Kirk Social Media Probe
Several districts have employees who have been subjected to complaints. One local district admits to putting some employees on leave.
FWISD Set For Huge Pay Day After Approving Bible-Infused Learning Materials
The district will receive about $4 million dollars for adopting the new materials that critics have called “biblically illiterate.”
UPDATE: Nexstar to Put Jimmy Kimmel Back on Air Following Protests
Organizers of the Nexstar protest worry about what a merger will mean for free speech and Dallas’ WFAA news station.
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Best of Dallas 2025: A Once-Upon-a-Time Storyteller Who Faced the Dragons Herself
Cassie Nova never expected to lead a children’s story time, but she and the kids loved it. Conservatives didn’t.
UPDATE: Dallas Morning News Shareholders Approve Sale to Hearst
The massive deal means that media titan Hearst will own four of Texas’ five largest daily newspapers.
UPDATE: Irving-Based Nexstar to Keep Jimmy Kimmel Off the Air
The local media conglomerate plans to purchase WFAA’s parent company, but it needs FCC approval first.
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Best of Dallas 2025: Pan-African Connection Is Where History Won’t Be Hidden
Owner Akwete Tyehimba aims to dispel myths, promote positive images and build community.
Trump Turned an Outpouring of Respect for Kirk Into a Coliseum of Hate
The throngs who braved heat, darkness and expense to mourn Charlie Kirk were rewarded with grotesque MAGA saber-rattling.
UT Dallas Bans Newsstands, Another Blow to Freedoms at the School
The school’s new policy dramatically limits the presence of local media on campus, something that’s been happening too often.
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