University of North Texas Administrators Canceled Critical Immigration Art Show After Internal Deliberations

Internal communications reveal University of North Texas administrators privately discussed and then canceled an exhibition by artist Victor 'Marka27' Quiñonez that criticized U.S. immigration enforcement. Provost Michael McPherson and President Harrison Keller exchanged text messages in February about removing specific works before deciding to dismantle the entire show, referencing concerns about political reactions from Austin. The exhibition 'Ni de Aquí, Ni de Allá,' featuring Quiñonez's 'I.C.E Scream' sculptural series, was terminated shortly after opening at the College of Visual Arts and Design gallery. The cancellation prompted accusations of censorship from free speech organizations and led most Studio Art MFA students to withdraw from upcoming thesis shows in protest. The university has not publicly explained its decision.