By Michael Meranze

It is too soon to tell what will be the long term impact of the federal invasion of Minneapolis.  But it is clear that the images--both of the thuggish brutality of ICE and CBP and the solidarity and bravery of Minnesotans opposing the brutality and occupation--will not going away soon.  Minneapolis offers many lessons for possibility of a democratic future in the United States.  But, although less obviously, it also offers lessons for the future of a democratic higher education in the United States.  It is the latter that I want to point to here.

UCLA on May 14, 2018    

It’s a Friday in the 6^th grade, when you eat at the lunch truck parked outside the school gate. While standing in line, the big kid behind you grabs the five-dollar bill out of your hand. When you turn around, he smirks and says, “I’ll give you this five back if you give me a ten.”  

 

This is the genius shakedown that Trump has imposed on UCLA.  He announced the freezing of $300 million, which UCLA officials said is really $584 million.  Two days later, it was like the first Dr. Evil scene in Austin Powers.  “We hold UCLA ransom for--one BILLION dollars.”

 

Obviously, the choice can’t be to pay $1 billion to get back $584 million. The choice is to say okay, keep the $584 million, or, instead, sue to get back the $584 million that has been (unlawfully) withheld. 

 

It’s not really a choice. UC must pick door number two.