University of Washington Cancels Hasan Piker Lecture After Backlash

The University of Washington canceled a scheduled January 21, 2027, public lecture featuring political commentator and streamer Hasan Piker. The event, which was to be held both online and at Town Hall Seattle, was sponsored by the Graduate School and the Jackson School of International Studies.

University officials stated the cancellation followed a review of the planning process, which they determined did not meet the necessary level of rigor for university-hosted speaker series. The decision came after significant pressure from Washington state legislators and Jewish organizations, including the Anti-Defamation League and the American Jewish Committee, who argued that hosting Piker legitimized a figure with a history of antisemitic remarks. The university is also currently under a compliance review by the U.S. Department of Justice regarding its response to campus antisemitism.

The move sparked a debate over free speech and taxpayer funding. Republican State Representative Travis Couture praised the decision, arguing that an America-hating communist should not be promoted with public funds. Conversely, the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression and Andrew Kolvet of Turning Point USA criticized the cancellation, suggesting the university used administrative standards as cover to silence a speaker based on his views.

Piker is known for controversial assertions, including claims that the United States deserved the September 11 attacks. While the university maintained its dedication to the free exchange of ideas, it announced it would update procedures to ensure future standards for hosted events are met.