In solidarity with victimised socialist historian Tom Alter
The London Socialist Historians Group which organises the socialist history seminar at the Institute of Historical Research, University of London, is dismayed and angered to read of the dismissal of Tom Alter a Professor at Texas State University.
The dismissal is entirely unrelated to Tom Alter work at the University but refers to remarks he made as an individual at a socialist conference. The dismissal violates the right of Alter and potentially others to speak out on key issues such as Palestine and Trans Rights.
The London Socialist Historians Group has over 30 years linked the pursuit of academically rigorous socialist historical research in the University with support for political activism outside of it.
We offer our support and solidarity to Tom Alter
Details
On September 10th, 2025, Dr. Tom Alter, a respected and tenured professor of history at Texas State University, was fired for remarks he made at a socialist conference in his capacity as a private citizen.
He was fired without due process, a clear violation of both Texas State University policy and Texas state law. Alter is a published labor historian, a popular teacher and adviser, a proud union member, a father of two, and a socialist activist.
Texas State University’s actions represent a blatant attack on Dr. Alter’s First Amendment right to free speech. It is a political move to suppress progressive and leftist thought on campuses. His firing and the stripping away of his and his family’s livelihood is a chilling reminder of the attacks waged on campuses around the country. Alter’s firing constitutes an attack on his fundamental civil liberties, and represents a threat to the democratic rights of all working people.
The Committee to Defend Tom Alter demands his immediate reinstatement to his tenured teaching position at Texas State University. We fight for the right of Alter and people everywhere to speak out in support of socialism, the defense of Palestine, LGBTQIA and trans advocacy, anti-racism, and social justice. We are prepared to resist
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