TROY, Ala. (TROJANVISION) — It’s been over one week since Turning Point USA (TPUSA) founder, Charlie Kirk, was killed while debating students at Utah Valley University.
At Troy, student leaders from both sides of the political spectrum are speaking out against political violence. According to the National Library of Medicine, political violence is defined as the use of harm with the intent to achieve political goals.
Some say the death of Charlie Kirk is the latest form of this violence. Turning Point USA at Troy President, Caitlyn Harris, shared her response to those who celebrate Kirk’s death.
“We see so many people saying he deserved to die,” said Harris. “I say shame on you to anyone who says that and not just to Charlie. America was never meant to be a country that we should be scared to share our political views. That goes both ways.”
President of College Democrats of Troy University Marckus Cooper says he condemns all forms of political violence. Cooper also explained the steps that his organization took right after Kirk’s death.
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“The rhetoric is very hot right now and anyone in the political scene needs to take the proper steps in cooling it down,” Cooper said. “We released a statement, as Troy University Democrats, that essentially said that. We essentially also condemned any type of political violence based on if we agree with those ideologies or not.”
As political leaders on campus, Cooper and Harris weighed in of if they feel afraid of voicing their political opinions publicly.
“Just as John Robert Lewis said, make good trouble,” said Cooper. “Speak up for the things that you believe in and don’t let anyone stop you based on how they believe you’re affecting the political space.”
“I have faith that I’m doing the right thing,” said Harris. “I’m going to keep doing the right thing. Just because I’m scared, that doesn’t mean I can’t stop standing up for what I believe in.”
Despite the difference in ideology, Cooper and Harris both believe that standing up for what you believe in is part of a healthy democracy.
Those interested in learning more about College Democrats of Troy University and Turning Point at Troy can visit their Instagram pages at @troyudemocrats and at @tpusatroy.
