The Philosophers' Cocoon

Public philosophy is an important part of what we do, and how we can make a difference. It is thankless work that is not weighted as much as is should in tenure and promotion dossiers. Yet, through it, we can provide a valuable voice in debates and offer our expertise.

Rachel McKinnon, Assistant Professor at College of Charleston, is a publicly engaged philosopher whose YouTube videos have attracted hate speech and harassment. In particular, this Mother’s Day video. In the video, Rachel talks about trans women as mothers, and thanks her own mother.

Please consider signing this open letter in support of her, condemning this harassment campaign. We urge the College of Charleston to use all institutional means available to assist her.