In the wake of the University of North Texas (UNT) abruptly canceling an exhibition that critiqued U.S. immigration policies, newly disclosed internal communications shed light on the university’s decision-making process. Reports from independent journalist Adam Schrader, reviewed by Hyperallergic, reveal that UNT’s Provost Michael McPherson and President Harrison Keller privately exchanged text messages about the cancellation of Victor “Marka27” Quiñonez’s exhibition Ni de Aquí, Ni de Allá. The exhibition was called off in February without explanation, prompting allegations of censorship from free speech advocates such as the American Civil Liberties Union of Texas. In response, the majority of the Studio Art MFA cohort has withdrawn from future thesis shows to show solidarity with Quiñonez.
Prior to the exhibition’s cancellation, McPherson and Keller considered the removal of certain pieces, as revealed by texts obtained through a public records request. On February 6, McPherson informed Keller of a meeting regarding the exhibition, suggesting that concerning pieces could be removed while allowing the rest of the show to continue. Keller agreed, replying, “Yes. Thank you for your help with this.” However, later that evening, McPherson texted Keller about dismantling the entire exhibition.
Quiñonez, a Mexican-born artist who experienced his father’s deportation, included pieces from his I.C.E Scream series in the exhibition, featuring large resin sculptures critiquing the treatment of Latino immigrants. Despite the exhibition’s brief opening at the College of Visual Arts and Design gallery, the windows were covered, and Quiñonez received a brief email from CVAD leadership stating the termination of UNT’s loan with Boston University. Quiñonez responded to the texts, emphasizing the power of art in speaking truth to power and expressing hope for support from institutions aligned with historical justice.
Additional emails obtained reveal CVAD’s dean, Karen Hutzel, providing guidance to gallery director Stefanie Dlugosz-Acton on notifying Quiñonez about the exhibition’s cancellation without expressing regret. A timeline document, which remains unattributed, indicates that the exhibition was being dismantled on February 9, following a visit from Hutzel on February 2. This document also references a policy to protect free expression, established after a previous exhibition faced accusations of antisemitism.
Despite these communications, UNT has yet to publicly state their rationale for canceling the exhibition. A text message to James Coll, UNT’s vice president of brand strategy and communications, suggested a draft statement citing potential disruptions and campus safety concerns, but it was not released. Some suspect political pressure influenced the decision, given recent legislative actions in Texas and scrutiny from Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, a proponent of immigration enforcement. The ACLU of Texas and other advocacy groups have criticized UNT’s actions, emphasizing the role of public universities in fostering open discourse.
