Kyle Rittenhouse will return to the University of Memphis to speak about the Second Amendment and his controversial 2021 trial nearly a year after his previous speech was disrupted by an angry mob of student protesters. The University of Memphis chapter of Turning Point USA re-invited Rittenhouse to speak after a deal was reached with the university and Rittenhouse’s lawyers to ensure adequate security. Alliance Defending Freedom attorney Mathew Hoffmann emphasized the importance of universities not allowing hostile individuals to shut down speakers they do not agree with, citing Tennessee law and the First Amendment.
ADF intervened on Rittenhouse’s and TPUSA’s behalf by sending a demand letter in October requesting the university to reschedule the event and refund an unconstitutional security fee that was paid after the previous event was shut down. While the university did reschedule the event, they did not refund the $1,600 security fee. Hoffmann mentioned that the university has implemented changes to its security fee assessment system and has committed to giving a statement before the event emphasizing the importance of promoting respectful dialogue and not tolerating disruption.
Rittenhouse was acquitted of all charges in a high-profile case in 2021 after he fatally shot two people and injured a third during unrest in Kenosha in August 2020. His defense argued that he acted in self-defense after being attacked. The individuals he shot, Joseph Rosenbaum and Anthony Huber, both had criminal records that included allegations of domestic abuse, child molestation, and disorderly conduct. The decision to have Rittenhouse speak at the University of Memphis has sparked controversy and discussions surrounding free speech, the Second Amendment, and self-defense.
Despite repeated requests for comment, the University of Memphis did not respond to Fox News Digital’s inquiries by the time of publication.
The re-invitation of Kyle Rittenhouse to the University of Memphis has brought attention to the issue of free speech on college campuses and the importance of allowing diverse viewpoints to be heard. The involvement of Alliance Defending Freedom in negotiating with the university and advocating for Rittenhouse’s right to speak highlights the legal implications of stifling speech that goes against popular opinion. The upcoming speech by Rittenhouse is expected to generate both support and backlash, as discussions around gun rights, self-defense, and the justice system continue to be polarizing topics in America.
Rittenhouse’s upcoming speech at the University of Memphis serves as a test case for how universities handle controversial speakers and protect the principles of free speech and open dialogue. The situation also raises questions about the responsibilities of universities to ensure that events are conducted in a safe and respectful manner, regardless of the speakers involved. As the event approaches, there will likely be heightened security measures in place to prevent a repeat of the disruption that occurred during Rittenhouse’s previous speech, underscoring the ongoing tensions surrounding issues of gun violence, self-defense, and the boundaries of free speech in modern society.
