Charlie Kirk’s Planned Utah Campus Tour Draws Student Backlash

A planned visit by conservative activist Charlie Kirk to two Utah universities has prompted opposition from students and faculty, with a petition circulating at Utah State University calling on administrators to cancel the event.

The petition, created on Aug. 29, argues that Kirk’s presence on campus would run counter to the school’s stated mission of fostering inclusivity. As of this week, more than 2,700 people had signed on.

“Utah State University has consistently worked towards fostering an inclusive space for all its students and faculty,” the petition states. Allowing Kirk to speak on campus, it continues, “contradicts this mission.”

Kirk, who leads the conservative youth organization Turning Point USA, is scheduled to appear at Utah State University and Utah Valley University as part of his campus tour. His appearances, frequently marked by sharp political commentary, have drawn both strong support and protest at other schools.

The petition’s organizers contend that hosting Kirk does not serve the university community. “Charlie Kirk, a highly polarizing figure, does not align with the core values and ideology that Utah State University strives to epitomize,” the statement reads.

University officials have not yet responded publicly to the petition.