After deliberation on the suspension of two ETSU professors in regards to complaints made about their social media posts on the killing of Charlie Kirk, ETSU has now released the following statement:
“Last week, ETSU received numerous complaints regarding the conduct of two tenured professors following the horrific assassination of Mr. Charlie Kirk. The University took swift action, placing both faculty members on administrative leave pending further review. One of the two professors has communicated that he is stepping away from his position and retiring.
After a thorough review of State Law and institutional policy, ETSU has determined to continue the process for terminating the other professor’s employment for adequate cause.
Condoning or calling for violence has no place within ETSU’s campus community. Celebrating murder is abhorrent and unequivocally wrong. A university should be a place where students can carefully examine ideas, challenge themselves, and engage with individuals they may disagree with in a way that positively contributes to our society.
ETSU stands firm in its commitment to cultivating this type of civil discourse while ensuring that all people are treated with dignity and respect. Our hearts are with Mr. Kirk’s family and loved ones as they continue to grieve this unimaginable tragedy.”
