Free Speech and Campus Discourse: Charlie Kirk Engages Students in Thought-Provoking Debate

Kirk’s visit draws masses of students to engage in debate.

On Feb. 27, 2025, hundreds gathered to witness conservative commentator Charlie Kirk bring his famous “Change my Mind” segment to the University.. 

During his nearly three-hour-long set-up in Plaza of the Americas, Kirk engaged students and faculty on hot-button issues ranging from immigration to U.S. foreign aid, sparking  conversation on campus.

Kirk often speaks about the “scam” of American universities in their “bankrupting and brainwashing” of America’s youth. In 2012, he helped co-found Turning Point USA—an organization that seeks to bring conservative values to college campuses. When a UF history instructor questioned Kirk on similarities between the rise of President Trump and Adolf Hitler, the conservative commentator was quick to point out “inaccuracies” in the instructor’s train of logic. Loudly exclaiming that this is what students are we are paying for, his audience erupted in a mixture of cheers and shock at the unanticipated jab.     

Throughout the event, many audience members expressed support for Kirk’s appearance at UF. Sarah Messemer, a 20-year old Junior majoring in Public Relations, stated she felt the gathering was helpful in “showcasing America’s value of diversity of thought.” 

Another attendee, 22-year old Biology student Hayden Harris echoed a similar sentiment. When asked her opinion on controversial figures like Charlie Kirk coming to campus, Harris stated she thinks it’s good because “it brings kids out” and gives students the opportunity to “hear things they don’t get to hear normally in classes.” 

Others, however, may have disagreed with some of Kirk’s policies, yet still saw value in hosting events such as this on campus. Sophomore and 19-year old Microbiology major, Ashlyn Washington admitted she did not know much about the conservative commentator, but a viral clip of his extreme take on abortion had left her with a negative impression. Regardless of Washington’s uncertainty towards Kirk himself, she too described the event as “fun” and “entertaining,” pointing out that “if everyone agreed, nothing would get done.”  

Despite some disagreement, it seemed any individuals that may have been in opposition to Kirk were far outnumbered by his rowdy, enthusiastic supporters. 

There were, however, moments of unity and understanding in the midst of the otherwise chaotic event. When an 11-year veteran of the U.S. Army approached the microphone to share his story of perseverance and remind audience members of their freedom, a wave of support and applause swept through the crowd. Kirk even asked to meet the retired soldier personally after the event.  

Additionally, some individuals seeking to challenge various opinions held by Kirk were able to find common ground with the commentator. 

As stated by 19-year old and Statistics major, Ethan Bailey, the popularity and passion behind this event reveals this country’s willingness “to have open conversations, regardless of how the media may make it out to seem.”