Auburn, Alabama, October 21, 2025
News Summary
Candice Hale, a former lecturer at Auburn University, has filed a lawsuit against university leaders, alleging wrongful termination in retaliation for her social media comments about the assassination of Charlie Kirk. She contends her statements were protected under the First Amendment, highlighting concerns over free speech in educational institutions. Hale is pursuing monetary compensation, reinstatement, and measures to prevent future retaliation. Her case has raised significant discussions on the limits of free expression in academia.
Auburn, Alabama – Candice Hale, a former lecturer at Auburn University, has filed a lawsuit against several university leaders following her termination, which she claims was in retaliation for a social media post regarding the assassination of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk. Hale asserts that her comments, made on September 11, constituted constitutionally protected speech on matters of public concern, which she argues violated her First Amendment rights.
In her legal complaint, Hale emphasizes that such retaliation undermines the democratic principles essential for open discourse and the free exchange of ideas, which she believes are vital for liberty and justice. The controversial post that prompted her termination stated, “I do not mourn oppressors,” and included strong criticisms of “evil racist, fascist, misogynist” individuals.
On September 17, Auburn University announced the termination of employees whose social media content was considered “hurtful, insensitive,” and in violation of the institution’s Code of Conduct. Although Kirk’s name was not specifically mentioned, Auburn President Christopher Roberts referred to “actions that endorse, glorify or trivialize violence” in relation to the firings. The incident has attracted attention, with Senator Tommy Tuberville publicly supporting the university’s actions against those perceived to have mocked Kirk’s assassination.
Following an initial meeting with university officials, Hale was placed on paid leave and prohibited from contacting her students. She later attended a meeting, where she was informed of her impending termination and presented with a severance agreement without access to legal representation.
Hale is seeking monetary compensation, reinstatement, and measures to prevent future retaliation through her lawsuit. She is also pursuing legal action against the University of Alabama for a similar alleged wrongful termination, claiming that she was dismissed without a formal investigation or an opportunity to respond to the accusations surrounding her comments on Kirk’s death. In this case, Hale argues that her termination was justified by a supposed loss of confidence in her teaching ability, despite there being no evidence that her speech negatively impacted her performance or relationships with students.
The lawsuit names several individuals involved in the termination processes from both institutions, including Auburn University President Christopher Roberts, Dean of the College of Liberal Arts Jason Hicks, and University of Alabama President Peter Mohler. Hale has expressed her determination to defend her right to “speak truth to power” and challenge issues such as white supremacy, misogyny, and injustice, particularly in academic settings.
This legal battle raises critical questions about the boundaries of free speech in educational institutions and the extent to which educators can express their opinions on controversial public matters.
FAQ
Who is Candice Hale?
Candice Hale is a former lecturer at Auburn University and adjunct educator at the University of Alabama who is suing the university for wrongful termination.
What prompted Hale’s termination from Auburn University?
Hale was terminated after making social media comments about the assassination of Charlie Kirk, which she alleges were protected under the First Amendment.
What does Hale’s lawsuit seek?
Hale’s lawsuit seeks monetary compensation, reinstatement to her position, and measures to prevent future retaliation by university officials.
What were Hale’s social media comments about?
Hale’s comments criticized individuals she viewed as oppressors, saying she does not mourn “evil racist, fascist, misogynist” individuals following Kirk’s assassination.
What actions did Auburn University take in response to Hale’s post?
The university announced the termination of employees who made “hurtful, insensitive” posts on social media, referring to actions that endorse or trivialize violence.
What other legal action is Hale pursuing?
Hale is also pursuing legal action against the University of Alabama for alleged wrongful termination related to her comments about Kirk.
Key Features of Candice Hale’s Case
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Case Name | Candice Hale vs. Auburn University |
| Date of Incident | September 11 (following Charlie Kirk’s assassination) |
| Legal Basis | Violation of First Amendment rights |
| Allegations | Retaliation for social media comments |
| Demands | Monetary compensation, reinstatement, measure against future retaliation |
| Related Legal Action | Similar claims against the University of Alabama |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- AL.com: Former Alabama college instructor sues after she says she was fired for post on ‘wicked’ Charlie Kirk
- WVTM13: Auburn educator fired over Charlie Kirk lawsuit
- 1819 News: English instructor sues Auburn University after firing over alleged anti-Charlie Kirk Facebook post
- ABC3340: Lawsuit challenges Auburn University firing over social media post on Charlie Kirk
- Google Search: Candice Hale Charlie Kirk
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