Tamar Silinian, an assistant professor at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has faced backlash after responding to the assassination of Charlie Kirk by stating that the “world” and “his children are fine.”
The University of Tennessee Knoxville has suspended Silinian and is considering her termination from her position as an anthropology professor.
In her comments regarding Charlie Kirk’s assassination, Silinian expressed, “And his wife, well, she’s a sick person for marrying him, so I don’t really care about her feelings.”
The university reacted to public calls for action directed at Randy Boyd, the university president, emphasizing the need for immediate response.
“Celebrating or defending acts of violence and murder is unacceptable; there is no room for that at the University of Tennessee,” Boyd stated on social media.
“UT Knoxville is currently investigating this matter and will address it with the seriousness it requires,” he added.
Following the controversy, the university issued a statement, asserting that it swiftly took action against faculty who did not meet expected standards of community engagement.
“Her comments promoting violence do not align with our values,” the university noted.
The institution further indicated that the professor has been removed from her teaching responsibilities, placed on administrative leave, and that termination procedures are underway.
“At the University of Tennessee Knoxville, our mission centers on educating young minds,” the school pointed out.
“As educators molding future leaders, we hold a profound responsibility to foster a healthy environment for students to engage with challenging topics and express themselves openly,” they emphasized.
On Wednesday, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee ordered flags at the state capitol to be lowered in honor of Kirk.
“[First Lady Maria Lee] and I encourage Tennesseeans to uplift Charlie’s wife, Erica, their two children, and their family in prayer, asking for God’s healing for our nation as well,” he said.
Governor Lee later expressed support for the university’s decision to terminate Silinian, thanking Boyd and Chancellor Donde Plowman for their prompt action.
“We appreciate the university leaders in Tennessee for making the right call,” the governor remarked.
“Please continue to pray for healing for Charlie Kirk’s family and our nation,” he added.
The University of Tennessee Knoxville did not promptly respond to inquiries from media outlets.
