Opinion: In defense of free speech and press

On Sept. 10, political figure Charlie Kirk was shot and killed at Utah Valley University. Our peers at UVU witnessed the event occur on their campus. The Utah Statesman Editorial Board stands by UVU students and supports The UVU Review during this time.

We as the editorial board conclude free speech is a necessity. It fosters debate and growth. It holds governments accountable. Without it, democracy fails. Violent action directly threatens the First Amendment of every American citizen.

When people, whether they be political figures, activists, students or anyone in between, aren’t able to express their opinions and beliefs, it creates a climate of fear and political polarization. As members and supporters of the press, we know freedom of the press and freedom of speech are integral to a functioning society. Regardless of political belief, recent behavior encouraging the silence of controversial voices is unacceptable. In a society without freedom of expression, all suffer.

The board encourages students, staff and faculty of Utah State University to stand by the UVU community and the broader community of higher education in Utah. This attack on freedom of speech is a tragedy, but for it to have happened on a university campus is devastating for the future-focused minds who witnessed the event and will live in its aftermath.

Opposing political views, no matter how strong, are never an excuse for blind violence. Anger, no matter how justified, has no place causing harm in academic institutions. We’re all fighting for the same minimum: freedom of speech coexisting alongside the inherent value of human lives.

— The Editorial Board

editor@usustatesman.com