Protest over a professor at Florida Atlantic University

BOCA RATON, Fla. - Some conservative groups are calling for the Florida Atlantic University to fire a professor.

Dr. Bassem Al-halabi teaches engineering and science at FAU. Protesters accuse him of providing material support to those who support al-Qaeda.

Pastor Mark D. Boykin of the Church of All Nations is leading the protest against the professor.

He said he wants engage in a dialogue and "describe to the people the kind of nefarious activities that Mr. Bassem Al-halabi has been involved in."

The university says Al-halabi has never been found guilty of, nor pleaded guilty to, any criminal activity.

The pastor promised to show printouts of his complaints.

Pastor Boykin said, "He (Al-halabi) has been involved with nefarious individuals and groups, terrorist groups to be specific."

University Statement re: Demonstration Concerning Dr. Bassem Al‐halabi:

As a public higher education institution in the world's most successful democracy,
Florida Atlantic University fully understands the importance of freedom of speech
and the rule of law. Our democratic way of life stands as a model for the world
precisely because the basic rights guaranteed by our Constitution are extended to
everyone. Abandoning that standard erodes the very foundation of our
democracy. FAU recognizes and respects the rights of both Dr. Al-halabi and his
critics to peacefully worship, assemble, express their beliefs, and engage in civil
debate.

Honest civil debate, however, should be based on facts, not innuendo,
insinuations, or outright falsehoods. Allegations of criminal wrongdoing against
Dr. Al-halabi have been investigated by the appropriate law enforcement
authorities. Dr. Al-halabi has never been found guilty of, nor pled guilty to, any
criminal activity. Those calling for his dismissal on the basis of alleged criminal
activity are either uninformed or deliberately misrepresenting the truth.