University of California Enforces Ban on Israel Boycotts, Undermining Student Free Speech

The University of California (UC) has once again asserted its prohibition against student governments engaging in financial boycotts of companies tied to any specific country, including Israel — a move that reveals the growing influence of federal intrusion into campus affairs and a troubling restriction on genuine student activism. President Michael Drake sent a letter to UC chancellors reiterating this ban under the guise of upholding "sound business practices," insisting competitive bidding must guide financial decisions. While he does not explicitly name Israel in the letter, context makes clear this policy targets efforts to boycott Israeli businesses amid rising pro-Palestinian...