The student government association (SGA) at Seton Hall University this week voted to recognize a left-wing group on campus after having denied recognition to a Turning Point USA chapter just last month.
To prevent TPUSA members from attending the meeting, the SGA voted to enter a closed session. TPUSA’s student president was removed from the room despite SGA bylaws not permitting a closed session for that purpose.
Last month, the SGA, which oversees recognition of campus groups, rejected the TPUSA chapter. In an email explaining the decision, the SGA stated, “Given TPUSA’s national profile and the controversies surrounding its events, concerns were expressed about potential campus conflict, heightened reactions, and increased security needs.” The email also said, “Concerns were raised that materials associated with the organization at the national level include statements and activities that do not align with the University’s Catholic Mission.”
Seton Hall University is a Catholic institution and a member of the Big East, a conference made up mostly of Catholic universities. Other schools in the conference include Georgetown, Xavier, and Creighton. Much of the student body comes from conservative and Christian or Catholic families, and many students regularly attend mass on campus.
The campus culture includes a strong religious presence and less far-left activism compared to many other universities. Families often choose Seton Hall with the expectation that students will not be subjected to left-wing ideological pressure. However, Seton Hall remains a modern university and drew attention last year for approving a drag show on campus. The event was quickly cancelled after backlash.
Students on the campus have continued to seek recognition for a TPUSA chapter on its campus.
