Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, is scheduled to appear this September at Utah Valley University and Utah State University as part of his national tour. For many students and community members, this isn’t just another speaking event. It’s a threat to the inclusive, respectful environment that our campuses are supposed to represent.

Kirk has built his platform on divisive rhetoric—attacking LGBTQ communities, encouraging women to “submit” to their husbands, and repeatedly making racist remarks. While free speech is essential to higher education, universities also have a responsibility to protect students from harassment, hostility, and the legitimization of hate under the banner of “debate.”

Utah’s campuses are home to students from every background—first-generation college students, LGBTQ youth, international students, and young people of color. They deserve to pursue their education without fear of being singled out or demeaned by nationally known figures invited into their own classrooms and auditoriums. When speakers with a record of targeting marginalized groups are given the microphone, the result isn’t dialogue—it’s harm.

The administration at Utah State University has already said Kirk’s event will proceed under its free expression policy. But free expression does not mean student safety should be ignored. Universities have the authority to set standards for outside speakers and to prioritize community well-being. Other campuses across the country have taken a stand by denying platforms to those who spread bigotry. Utah’s universities should do the same.

We call on Utah State University President Elizabeth Cantwell and Utah Valley University President Astrid Tuminez to cancel Charlie Kirk’s scheduled appearances. By allowing these events to go forward, USU and UVU are endorsing rhetoric that directly undermines their stated commitments to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Our campuses should be places where students learn, grow, and feel safe—not stages for hate disguised as debate.

Sign if you believe Utah’s universities must cancel Charlie Kirk’s appearances and protect students from harmful rhetoric.

[AP Photo Andrew Harnick]