Aftermath of Charlie Kirk’s Assassination: Academic Responses and Reinstatements

In the wake of the high-profile assassination of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, several academics faced disciplinary actions for their online remarks celebrating his death. As institutions prepare for the new semester, many of these faculty members have been reinstated, sparking debate about free speech and the limits of acceptable discourse in educational environments.

Why It Matters

The reactions from academic circles following Kirk’s assassination highlight a significant clash between perspectives on free expression and the responsibilities of educators. As institutions navigate these tensions, the reinstatement of faculty members who made controversial comments raises questions about academic freedom and the consequences of inflammatory remarks.

Key Developments

• Austin Peay State University: Darren Michael, an acting and directing professor, was fired shortly after Kirk’s assassination but has since been reinstated with a $500,000 settlement due to procedural missteps by the university.

• University of South Dakota: Art professor Michael Hook was initially fired for derogatory comments regarding Kirk but was reinstated following a federal court ruling favoring his First Amendment rights.

• Florida Atlantic University: Three faculty members faced administrative leave for their posts about Kirk’s death; among them, tenured professors Rebel Cole and Karen Leader have since returned to teaching.

• Montana State University-Northern: Samantha Balemba-Brownlee was suspended for making inflammatory comments about Kirk, which has sparked campus discussions.

• Clemson University: Joshua Bregy was terminated for a Facebook comment perceived as endorsing Kirk’s fate. The university later rescinded his firing, allowing him to remain employed until May 15, pending his resignation.

Full Report

Austin Peay State University’s Change of Course

Darren Michael shared a post referencing Kirk’s controversial statements about gun violence shortly before being dismissed. Following his reinstatement, the institution acknowledged that it did not adhere to its policies regarding the termination of tenured faculty. This case has drawn attention for both the settlement payout and the implications it holds for future cases involving academic speech.

Controversy at the University of South Dakota

Michael Hook’s comments, which included a scathing critique of Kirk’s legacy, led to his termination. However, his case gained traction in the legal system, emphasizing the complexities surrounding faculty speech. After the federal judge’s decision to temporarily reinstate him, the South Dakota Board of Regents opted not to pursue further disciplinary measures against Hook.

Florida Atlantic University’s Actions

Three professors at Florida Atlantic University received administrative leave for expressing views on Kirk’s death that unsettled students. Rebel Cole’s remarks about “hunting down” individuals were particularly alarming. While Cole and Karen Leader have returned, another, Kate Polak, remains on leave as the university evaluates her comments.

Reaction from MSU-N and Other Institutions

Samantha Balemba-Brownlee faced suspension due to her posts criticizing Kirk, which many found objectionable. Similarly, Farhana Sultana from Syracuse University was briefly suspended for her remarks, but she was soon reinstated as well.

Clemson University’s Legal Battle

Joshua Bregy’s termination for a post that mentioned “karma” pertaining to Kirk’s death demonstrates how discussions surrounding free speech are increasingly making their way into courtrooms. Following legal interventions, Bregy will leave the university under terms agreed upon in settlement negotiations.

Context & Previous Events

Charlie Kirk, a prominent conservative voice, was assassinated on September 10, 2025. His death triggered a spectrum of responses across various academic institutions, raising questions about academic freedom, the nature of speech, and professional accountability in educational settings. The incidents following Kirk’s assassination have highlighted the ongoing debates within academia regarding the boundaries of free expression versus responsible discourse.