The George-Anne has confirmed that on Monday, Oct. 6, an individual identified as Rob Henderson was stationed at the Rotunda without official authorization. He set up a “Prove Me Wrong” stand between the hours of 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., drawing attention from passing students.
According to email correspondence from Bridget Lee Eubanks, Director of Student Union Facilities and Event Services, “Rob Henderson initially submitted a Designated Public Forum Area Request for October 8; however, that date was unavailable due to a previously scheduled event,” the email reads. “Our team offered an alternative date, but the request was not confirmed before his arrival. On Monday, October 6, Mr. Henderson came to campus and set up his own tables and chairs under the Rotunda rather than in the designated Public Forum area. Because no reservation or approval had been finalized at that time, his setup was not authorized.”
Georgia Southern University’s Freedom of Expression Policy states that “Students, faculty, staff, and their invited guests are free to express their views, individually or in organized groups, orally, by sign or exhibit, on any topic, in all parts of the campus. Persons not affiliated with the University are free to express their views orally, by sign or exhibit, on any topic in the Designated Public Forum Area.” Eubanks also said,“All individuals or groups wishing to use outdoor spaces, including the Rotunda and Public Forum area, must have an approved reservation or Designated Public Forum confirmation.”
Following a review of the university’s Freedom of Expression Policy and the obtained email records, The George-Anne has confirmed that Rob Henderson did not receive confirmation to set up his “Prove Me Wrong” stand at the Russell Union Rotunda on Monday October 6.
During his time at the Rotunda, Henderson engaged with several students. One student, Anna-Rae, said, “It was amazing. He was open, and he didn’t spew his ideology on you, and before anything he wanted to hear what you say before he agreed or disagreed.” Another student, Kheon Hood, commented, “I like debating and sharing my opinions and Rob was a comfortable dude, talking about uncomfortable situations.”
However, not all students responded positively. One student, who asked to remain anonymous, said, “Someone asked him about the LGBTQ+ community and he said some comments about how “it’s not right” and how he just doesn’t agree with it.”
This unapproved visit ultimately sparked a mix of debate, curiosity, and discomfort among students. While some praised the opportunity for open discussion, others questioned the comments that were made.
