One year after the fatal shooting of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University, a new survey shows that nearly one in three college students believes violence can be a legitimate tool to silence a campus speaker.
The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE) released its annual free speech survey on Wednesday, based on responses from approximately 63,000 U.S. college students. The results indicate that 30% of students consider violence acceptable to prevent someone from speaking on campus, at least in rare cases. This marks a four-point drop from last year but a ten-point increase compared to four years ago.
The survey also found that 69% of students believe it is acceptable to shut down a speaker by shouting, a three-point decline from last year but seven points higher than in 2020. These figures underscore the persistent tensions surrounding free expression on college campuses, which have been exacerbated by conflicts such as the Israeli-Palestinian dispute and the Kirk killing itself.
According to FIRE, half of the students surveyed said it is difficult to discuss the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, a topic that has sparked protests and disruptions on campuses nationwide. The Trump administration's deportation efforts targeting pro-Palestinian foreign students have further inflamed these debates. President Trump ranked as the second most difficult topic to discuss, cited by 46% of students, while Kirk came in third at 44%.
The killing of Kirk, which occurred during an event at Utah Valley University, led to a wave of disciplinary actions against professors who were accused of celebrating his death. Several of those professors were later reinstated or received compensation after courts ruled their dismissals violated free speech protections.
Turning Point USA, the organization founded by Kirk, is scheduled to hold a memorial event at Utah Valley University on Thursday to honor his legacy. The event comes amid ongoing debates about the limits of free speech and the safety of speakers on college campuses.
FIRE's findings highlight a generational shift in attitudes toward free expression, with a growing acceptance of disruptive tactics. While shouting down speakers is more widely tolerated than violence, the survey suggests that a significant minority of students see force as a justifiable last resort.
The survey's release coincides with broader national discussions about campus speech, including recent controversies over chronic absenteeism and other educational challenges. As universities grapple with these issues, the balance between protecting free speech and maintaining order remains a contentious and unresolved question.
