Following the assassination of Charlie Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA, during an event at a Utah campus, conservative students at Boston University are urging their university leaders to ensure their safety. They feel increasingly vulnerable to violence and intimidation.
Philip Waltorff, the Vice President of the BU College Republicans and a legislative aide, expressed to Fox News that Kirk’s death has deeply unsettled conservative students. He stated, “Universities should be a marketplace of ideas. If speakers and conservatives have to fear for their safety, this marketplace will close.”
In a letter sent to BU President Melissa Gilliam, the group held the university accountable for fostering a culture of violence, requesting “appropriate security” for future events hosted by the University Republican Party. They also voiced concerns that their views were stifled by a threatening atmosphere.
A student at BU shared that conservative voices often feel marginalized, stating social intimidation and hostility have silenced them. The campus climate, they suggested, prioritizes one ideological perspective over promoting a healthier diversity of thought.
Waltorff noted having seen some students making inappropriate comments on platforms like Reddit, even celebrating Kirk’s death, which he described as “snarky.” He emphasized that although disagreements exist, discussion, not violence, should be the aim.
As some clubs begin to open up about their meeting schedules, there’s an underlying fear of attracting negative attention. Waltorff asserted the necessity of providing a safe space for their members and mentioned that security is already being discussed for upcoming gatherings.
Despite these challenges, the group remains committed to preserving Kirk’s legacy of free speech. Recently, several new students have joined their mailing list, eager to participate in future meetings.
Waltorff noted that BU reflects broader challenges in higher education regarding diversity of thought, citing a survey showing that a significant majority of faculty at Harvard University lean conservative. He stressed the importance of hiring more conservative faculty and encouraging dialogue among differing viewpoints.
Interestingly, just months before his assassination, Kirk had voiced concerns about what he termed a “left-wing assassination culture.”
Known for his approachable discussions and challenging liberal viewpoints, Kirk had recently launched the “American Comeback Tour” at Utah Valley University. Waltorff expressed a sense of duty to carry on Kirk’s mission and ideals.
A representative from BU mentioned plans to respond to the letter and reiterated the university’s commitment to encouraging political expression and healthy discourse. “We’ve historically hosted many controversial figures and taken steps to ensure the safety of all involved,” they added.
