(The Conversation is an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts.)

Neal H. Hutchens , University of Kentucky and Jeffrey C. Sun , University of Louisville

(THE CONVERSATION) American colleges and universities are increasingly firing or punishing professors and other employees for what they say , whether it’s on social media or in the classroom.

After the Sept. 10, 2025, killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, several universities, including Iowa State University , Clemson University , Ball State University and others, fired or suspended employees for making negative online comments about Kirk .

Some of these dismissed professors compared Kirk to a Nazi, described his views as hateful, or said there was no reason to

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