Controversial Reaction to TPUSA Chapter Approval at Colorado University
A retired professor became a focal point of controversy after he was recorded using hostile language towards conservatives following the approval of a new Turning Point USA (TPUSA) chapter at Fort Lewis College in Colorado.
On November 7, former anthropology professor David Kozak was visibly upset during an emergency meeting of the Associated Students of Fort Lewis College (ASFLC), which voted to establish a TPUSA chapter. This decision came after they initially rejected a proposal from senior Jonah Flynn to start the group at the university. The change sparked significant debate on campus.
Kozak expressed his frustration, labeling those associated with the TPUSA chapter as “Nazis” and directed harsh remarks at the individual recording him, exclaiming, “Damn, it’s a Nazi.”
Kozak’s outburst seems to highlight a broader struggle faced by TPUSA chapters at liberal arts colleges that historically lean toward Democratic candidates, like Kamala Harris in the last election.
A representative from Fort Lewis College confirmed Kozak’s retirement, stating, “Mr. Kozak will retire from Fort Lewis College in 2022 and is no longer employed by the college.” They emphasized that the institution is dedicated to fostering an environment of academic excellence and civil discourse.
Kozak further shouted, “Come on, fascists. Come on, Nazi lovers,” in response to supporters of the TPUSA chapter.
This incident comes as Flynn initiated efforts to form a TPUSA chapter, which ignited a petition against the organization, accusing it of causing harm to students. This petition, launched on October 17, reportedly received more than 400 signatures, asserting that TPUSA’s actions jeopardize the safety of underrepresented groups on campus.
In response to the initial rejection, a counter-petition supporting TPUSA gathered over 1,000 signatures. Following this, the ASFLC ultimately decided to approve the TPUSA chapter on November 7.
Kozak has not publicly commented on this situation following the events. The contrasting views on campus reflect a larger battle over political representation and discourse in educational spaces. It’s, I think, interesting to see how universities become battlegrounds for such conversations.
