Former UCLA DEI Director Fired Over Controversial Posts About Charlie Kirk’s Death
A former director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) has been terminated after expressing indifference toward the assassination of conservative figure Charlie Kirk. Johnathan Perkins claims this action infringes on his First Amendment rights.
Why It Matters
This incident highlights the ongoing discourse surrounding free speech in academic environments, particularly within institutions where ideological divisions are often pronounced. The ramifications of such firings could set precedents for how universities handle similar controversies in the future.
Key Developments
- Johnathan Perkins announced his dismissal from UCLA on the social media platform Bluesky, suggesting it was due to his lack of sorrow over Kirk’s death.
- Perkins has initiated a GoFundMe campaign, stating he plans to sue the university for alleged violations of his First Amendment rights.
- UCLA placed Perkins on administrative leave amid backlash from his posts regarding Kirk’s assassination, and officially terminated his employment afterward.
- The university reiterated its commitment to free expression while condemning any form of violence or celebration of violence.
- Perkins defended his statements in an interview with UCLA’s student newspaper, asserting that it is acceptable to feel relief over the death of someone he described as a "horrible, horrible bigot."
Full Report
Perkins’ Posts and Dismissal
After Charlie Kirk was assassinated on September 10, 2025, during a Turning Point USA event, Perkins made several posts on Bluesky that drew significant criticism. In these posts, he suggested that Kirk deserved his fate, referencing Kirk’s various statements that he believed justified violence. Perkins stated, "Dude made this bed; reaped what he sowed," indicating a belief that Kirk’s rhetoric contributed to his demise.
The school did not comment directly on Perkins’ situation, but shared a statement acknowledging a review process for personnel matters. They emphasized that while free expression is a crucial value, celebrating violence is unacceptable.
Reaction and Context
Perkins received widespread backlash for his remarks, including from the university community and beyond. Following the uproar, he was placed on leave before his ultimate termination. Perkins has described his situation as a violation of free speech and has invoked support for broader movements against racism and for free speech in his fundraising efforts.
In a related atmosphere of heightened sensitivity around discussions of free speech and public figures, Perkins’ case reflects ongoing tensions within educational institutions regarding how conversations around controversial topics are navigated.
Context & Previous Events
Prior to this incident, discussions around free speech on college campuses had already been contentious. Similar cases involving faculty and students expressing controversial opinions have sparked debates over the limits of free speech and the responsibilities of educational institutions. UCLA previously indicated that they take matters of violence and hate speech seriously, demonstrating their commitment to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all students.
