ROCHESTER, N.Y. (Spectrum News 1) — In the wake of the assassination of political activist Charlie Kirk, Spectrum News 1 takes a close look at social media accountability and the First Amendment, specifically on college campuses.
The Kirk shooting happened on a college campus in front of hundreds of college students; a young man assassinated while exercising his right to free speech.
Kirk’s death triggered a firestorm of comments on social media, ranging from prayers for his family to celebrations of his death.
“Freedom of speech is the number one thing in the Constitution, so people can express how they feel,” said college student Shamir Bronson.
But is there a point where the expressions cross the line calling for consequences?
“College students do not have sufficient protections. These colleges can really do whatever they want,” said Nicholas Marricco, an attorney who represents students, parents and employees. “We’re seeing students who may say something they regret, and then they’re going to ruin your career. You’re going to not get an opportunity to a degree for that.”
Marricco, senior associate at Tully Rinckey PLLC, points out that people have lost their jobs, including teachers for supporting the assassination of Kirk on social media, and says students could face disciplinary action, including suspension or worse for similar posts.
“I could see a world where the federal government may impose sanctions or further restrictions on colleges who don’t, in their mind, suspend or discipline students who are speaking in favor or, I don’t want to use the word celebrating, but celebrating the assassination. I could see a world where that happens,” he said.
College students offer their thoughts.
“I think people should have the right to post what they want to post. I think that it shouldn’t affect their education, and if they get suspended or not. And I think that by enforcing that, like suspending somebody because they’re posting about Charlie Kirk, I think that’s further dividing us in terms of politics,” said Alex Rynkiewicz.
“Free speech is obviously something Charlie Kirk himself believed in, so I don’t think it’s fair to suspend or chastise students for any reason about speaking for what they believe,” said Geo Anselme.
“Everybody should be able to say what they want and live their life freely, but if it goes toward a negative passion or towards a certain person, I think there’s a cutoff where like you can only say so much without it getting back or hurting other people,” said Cameron Gonzalez.
“If they do say something that is harmful that they should have some kind of repercussion, not getting expelled,” said Sabrina Cornelia.
