The debate over free speech on college campuses has reignited following the death of Charlie Kirk, a prominent conservative speaker and former Fox News contributor, sparking renewed discussions among students and educators about the boundaries of expression. Law students participating in this year’s National Lawyer Conference, hosted by the Federalist Society—a conservative legal organization—have become central figures in these conversations, addressing how universities can balance free speech rights with campus inclusivity.
During the conference, students have shared insights on the challenges of fostering open dialogue in an environment where students often face pressure to conform to specific ideological viewpoints. Fox News Digital spoke to several participants, who explained their efforts to encourage respectful discourse and protect academic freedom. These discussions come against the backdrop of ongoing debates about censorship, campus diversity initiatives, and the role of conservative thought in higher education. Some students have also expressed concerns about the impact of institutional policies on free speech, emphasizing the need for universities to uphold constitutional protections while addressing issues of bias and inclusivity.