University Statement on TPUSA Student Club Event

Utah State University officials have received several messages from alumni and students who are concerned about the Turning Point USA event, which will be hosted on campus by a student club on Sept. 30.

Universities play a unique role in the discovery, expansion, and dissemination of knowledge by fostering scientific exploration, free inquiry, and a robust exchange of ideas. Free inquiry is the cornerstone of this pursuit of knowledge, and safeguarding an open environment for free expression is paramount to Utah State University fulfilling its mission.

Consistent with our commitment to free speech on campus, USU welcomes a robust exchange of ideas and seeks to foster an environment where all members of our campus community can gather, associate, and express themselves freely. Under USU policy, student clubs and others can invite speakers to campus. Under the same policy, “[w]hen individuals are invited to speak or present on campus, the university respects the speaker’s right to engage in protected speech and encourages a respectful presentation environment free from undue disruption or interference.”

The university provides equal access and support to all student organizations, regardless of their political or social views. This policy fosters a campus environment where a wide range of ideas can be expressed. When hosting or facilitating student events, the university’s role is to provide a neutral platform for discussion, not to promote or endorse specific viewpoints.

Student groups may express their viewpoints; however, the university itself does not align with or endorse any group’s views.

Anytime a controversial speaker comes to campus, university community members have several options and can decide what is right for them.

• Ignore the event and the speaker. All events hosted by student clubs are optional, and no one is required to attend.
• Invite a speaker. Any student club can host a speaker on campus throughout the year. Events must be open to all students.
• Attend to learn and hone your own ideas. The best way to sharpen your own values and ideas is to listen to and better understand counterarguments.