March 19, 2024

Just when you think that the right wing couldn't possibly get more depraved and degenerate, they go ahead and prove you wrong.

Turning Point USA has announced that they are hosting Killer Kyle Rittenhouse to speak at Kent State, just weeks before the 54th anniversary of the Kent State killings. Kyle is, of course, the guy who took an AR-15 to a protest and opened fire, killing two men and injuring a third. Making this one of the most inappropriate things TPUSA could do:

Kent State couldn't distance itself far enough or fast enough from the event:

A registered student organization is bringing this speaker to campus. Kent State University upholds the First Amendment rights of free speech and peaceful assembly for all. As a state university, we permit groups and individuals to speak and share their views on our campus about topics they feel are important.

Kent State has a long history of allowing peaceful dialogue from all points of view, including those whom some may feel are offering different and/or sometimes controversial opinions. As with any speaker invited to our campus, the university does not endorse or condone an opinion or point of view represented by the speaker, nor does the university advocate for any topic the speaker might discuss during their visit to campus. We continue to support and encourage freedom of expression and the free exchange of ideas. Consistent with our core values, we encourage open dialogue and respectful civil discourse in an inclusive environment.

Emily Vincent, Director of University Media Relations at Kent State

Meanwhile, the students are already started taking action and have an online petition calling on the university and TPUSA to cancel this event. At the time of this writing, the have collected more than 1,200 signatures.

I understand that Kent State might feel like their hands are tied on this because of the First Amendment, but even the Freedom of Speech has its limitations.

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