Auburn, AL, October 21, 2025
News Summary
Candice Hale, a former lecturer at Auburn University, is suing the institution for wrongful termination. Hale alleges her dismissal was connected to her Facebook post criticizing far-right commentator Charlie Kirk. She expressed that her comments were an exercise of free speech. Following her remarks, multiple university employees were terminated over similar social media activity. Hale’s case raises significant questions about the balance between free speech rights and social media conduct in academic settings.
Auburn, AL – A former Auburn University lecturer, Candice Hale, has filed a lawsuit against the university alleging wrongful termination linked to her online commentary about the recently deceased far-right commentator Charlie Kirk. Hale claims that her dismissal violated her free speech rights stemming from a Facebook post made on September 11, 2023, where she expressed her disapproval of Kirk and stated, “I do not mourn oppressors. I do not show them empathy.”
Following Hale’s post, Auburn University President Christopher Roberts announced on September 17, 2023, that multiple employees had been terminated due to their social media posts. However, he did not disclose the exact number of those affected. Among the employees terminated, Hale claims her firing was specifically linked to her comments and their perceived impact on students affiliated with Auburn’s chapter of Turning Point USA, a right-wing organization founded by Charlie Kirk.
During a meeting with two university officials, Chris Hardman and Scott Forehand, Hale reported that she was questioned about her remarks and whether they posed a threat to the safety of students from the Turning Point USA chapter. During this discussion, she was asked if she owned any weapons or had intentions to harm anyone, despite the university officials concluding that she did not pose any danger to campus safety. Following the announcement of terminations, Hale was placed on administrative leave and subsequently banned from campus grounds by Clarence JC Stewart.
Hale’s communication with the university escalated when she was informed by Tami Poe that legal representation would not be allowed in a meeting concerning her dismissal. In a virtual meeting that followed, Hale was formally notified by Jason Hicks that Auburn University intended to terminate her employment and was provided a 21-day window to consider a severance agreement.
Additionally, Hale disclosed that she experienced a similar situation with The University of Alabama, where she was terminated shortly after her Facebook post without a formal investigation, hearing, or opportunity to defend herself. She contends that the actions taken against her by both universities signify an attempt to suppress dissenting voices and curtail free expression within academic settings.
The lawsuit names several officials from Auburn University, including President Christopher Roberts, Chris Hardman, Clarence JC Stewart, Scott Forehand, Jason Hicks, and Tami Poe. As of now, Auburn University has not publicly commented on the case. Legal experts are closely watching how the lawsuit may influence discussions about the balancing act between free speech and the conduct of public employees, particularly concerning academic freedom and the First Amendment.
The controversy surrounding Hale’s case is part of a wider trend involving faculty and staff being disciplined or terminated for comments made on social media in the wake of politically sensitive events. This has raised significant questions about the extent to which public employees can exercise their free speech rights, especially in academic environments.
FAQ
Who is suing Auburn University?
A former Auburn University lecturer, Candice Hale, is suing the university.
What is the reason for the lawsuit?
Candice Hale claims her termination violated her free speech rights connected to a Facebook post about Charlie Kirk.
When did Hale make her Facebook post?
Hale made her post on September 11, 2023.
What did Hale express in her Facebook post?
She stated, “I do not mourn oppressors. I do not show them empathy.”
What action did Auburn University take on September 17, 2023?
President Christopher Roberts announced that multiple employees were terminated due to their social media posts.
What was the university’s response to Hale’s comments?
University officials questioned Hale about her comments and their possible impact on students from Turning Point USA.
Have there been any consequences for Hale’s employment?
Yes, she was placed on administrative leave and later informed of her termination.
What broader issue does Hale’s case raise?
The case raises significant questions about the balance between free speech and social media use by public employees.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Claimant | Candice Hale |
| Affiliation | Auburn University |
| Reason for Lawsuit | Wrongful termination and violation of free speech rights |
| Date of Facebook Post | September 11, 2023 |
| Key Statement | “I do not mourn oppressors. I do not show them empathy.” |
| Related Organization | Turning Point USA |
| University Actions | Multiple terminations related to social media conduct |
| Legal Context | Challenges regarding free speech and social media usage in academia |
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Additional Resources
- Alabama Reflector: Former Auburn University Instructor Sues School
- WHNT: Fine Line of Free Speech Online
- WVTM 13: Auburn University Lawsuit
- AL.com: Auburn University Fires Employees
- Wikipedia: Freedom of Speech
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Free Speech
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