I write this petition as an individual deeply concerned about the standard of discourse in our prominent educational institutions. As someone who values freedom of speech, I find the reported actions of Dr. Katherine Shurik, a professor at CSU, Fresno, deeply unsettling. Dr. Shurik has allegedly made public statements, including calls for the death of high-profile figures such as the President of the United States and business magnate Elon Musk. It is distressing and unacceptable that an educator known to influence young minds could propagate such extreme views.

Fresno State is a public university with a diverse student body exceeding 25,000 (Report of CSU, Fresno, 2020). It is important that these young people receive their education in an environment that fosters respectful, healthy discourse, not from someone who engages in disturbing, violent rhetoric. Professors need to be mentors and guides, setting a standard for responsible speech and behavior. Unfortunately, Dr. Shurik's actions, as described, contradict such responsible practices.

In light of this, we ask Fresno State University to terminate Dr. Katherine Shurik's employment. By doing so, the University can send a clear message that violent, hateful speech is not condoned in their educational environments, regardless of any potential protection under the guise of academic freedom.

We ask that you support our cause by signing this petition. Convey to university leadership that you agree that such behavior from an educator is unacceptable and damaging. Our educational institutions need to ensure they provide a suitable learning environment, one that respects differing perspectives, encourages robust debate, and does not promote harmful sentiments towards any individual, regardless of their public roles. Together, we can uphold the values of respectful, measured discourse and champion the importance of maintaining the integrity of our educational environments. Please sign this petition.