Utah Valley University Students Vow to Continue Debates After Charlie Kirk's Killing
Following the fatal shooting of conservative speaker Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University, students across the political spectrum pledge to uphold campus debates.
Student Scott Sperry, a 22-year-old at Utah Valley University, had long followed Charlie Kirk online. After signing up for the campus Turning Point USA chapter, Sperry took a front-row seat for Kirk’s speech. Moments later, a sniper bullet struck Kirk in the neck.
Witnesses said the shock of that day has given way to determination. Across political lines, students say they feel a renewed duty to maintain open debate on campus.
Turning Point USA, which Kirk co-founded in 2012, now boasts branches at more than 850 colleges. Known for his confrontational style, Kirk drew huge crowds and protests nationwide as he tackled issues from gun control to immigration.
The shooting has placed Utah Valley University at the centre of America’s political divide. Some on social media blamed Kirk for his stance on gun rights, while others accused the “radical left” of targeting conservatives.
Freshman McKinley Shinkle said the event radicalized him and his peers. “When you try to silence a voice like this, you only amplify it,” he said, adding that he plans to stay politically active.
- Debate fans and critics reflect on Charlie Kirk’s legacy
- Authorities identify suspect in the shooting
Despite divergent views, students agree on one point: public debate must continue. “He was exercising his right in a public forum,” sophomore Ben Forster said. “That is a good thing.”
Volunteers at the campus chapter expect membership to surge. As sophomore Jeb Jacobi put it, “This tragedy will only fuel what Charlie started.”
“Silencing a voice like Charlie Kirk’s only amplifies the movement he inspired.”
This topic was reported by BBC.
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