Gov. Hochul Reassures Chautauqua Institution Following Rushdie Attack


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By Tom Kowalski

CHAUTAUQUA, NY (Erie News Now) – New York Governor Kathy Hochul gave a speech at the Chautauqua Institution reassuring residents following the attack on author Salman Rushdie on Friday.





She also commended the actions of police and volunteers at Friday’s event, who not only performed first aid on Rushdie, but also apprehended the suspect, Hadi Matar, who has been charged with attempted murder in the second degree, and second degree assault.

“New York State will always stand up to protect freedom of expression, freedom of speech,” said Governor Hochul at Chautauqua’s Hall of Philosophy. “And we condemn the cowardly attack on Salman Rushdie.”

Chautauqua says that despite the event, they are committed to fulfilling it’s programs for the rest of the season.





















“Chautauqua is committed to providing a home for the voices of artists, preachers and speakers,” said Michael Hill, President of the Chautauqua Institution. “Who’ve had the ability to change the world for the better. That’s why we resumed our programming last night. And that’s why we’re complete the important conversations slated for the rest of our seasons and beyond.”

The Institution says that they will be reassessing their security after the attack.

“The police are gonna substantially increase our presence here,” said NY State Police Superintendent, Kevin Bruen. “We’re gonna do it in conjunction with the county sheriff, and with discussion with members of the institute staff.”

However, Hochul assured residents that freedom of speech was protected above all else.









“A man with a knife did not silence a man with a pen,” said Governor Hochul in conclusion.

 

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