By Neal H. Hutchens , and Jeffrey C. Sun

The Conversation

American colleges and universities are increasingly firing or punishing professors and other employees for what they say , whether it’s on social media or in the classroom.

After the Sept. 10, 2025, killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, several universities, including Iowa State University , Clemson University , Ball State University and others, fired or suspended employees for making negative online comments about Kirk .

Some of these dismissed professors compared Kirk to a Nazi, described his views as hateful, or said there was no reason to be sorry about his death .

Some professors are now suing their employers for taking disciplinary action against them, claiming they are violating their First Ame

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