Louisiana AG joins others in call for free speech protections at colleges

BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) — Louisiana’s attorney general joins 16 others in a call for free speech protections at colleges and universities after the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

The letter, addressed to presidents and deans, condemns political violence after Kirk’s death. It stated, “The fact that the slaying took place on a college campus, during a debate, makes it even more tragic. Particularly at this moment, it is critical our state institutions of higher learning serve as forums for robust debate from all perspectives. The campus should be the very place where the First Amendment rings loudest to hear. We urge you to say no to the ‘Assassin’s Veto.’”

Attorney General Liz Murrill’s office explains that the “Assassin’s Veto” refers to security fees imposed on people or groups who want to speak out on campuses.

“There should be clear protocols for event approval and protecting speakers, ensuring security is the responsibility of the institution rather than a financial barrier on disfavored speech,” according to the letter.

“LSU has led in defending free speech. I hope all our State institutions will continue to do that. The right to free speech is above all others and we must protect it,” Murrill said.

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