Auburn, Alabama, October 21, 2025
News Summary
Candice Hale, an English lecturer at Auburn University, has initiated a federal lawsuit against the university after her termination following a controversial social media post. Hale criticized a conservative activist in her post, stating she does not mourn oppressors. The university claimed her comments conflicted with its values, leading to her dismissal and a ban from campus. Hale alleges her termination violates her First Amendment rights, raising critical questions about academic freedom and censorship in educational institutions.
Auburn, Alabama – Candice Hale, an English lecturer at Auburn University, has filed a federal lawsuit against the university and The University of Alabama for alleged violations of her First Amendment rights following her termination for a controversial social media post. Hale’s dismissal took effect on September 23, 2022, after she criticized conservative activist Charlie Kirk’s death in a Facebook post that stated, “I do not mourn oppressors.”
The Auburn University administration announced on September 17, 2022, that several employees were terminated for social media posts in conflict with the university’s values, but did not specify how Hale’s comments fell within this definition. Hale’s post referred to Kirk, labeling certain individuals as “evil racist, fascist, misogynistic,” which she claims led to her being designated as a “threat” by university officials.
In the aftermath of her online statement, Hale was placed on administrative leave, banned from campus, and prohibited from contacting her approximately 80 to 100 students. She described her experience at Auburn prior to her termination as positive and expressed disappointment at being unable to say goodbye to her students. Hale asserted that the actions taken against her caused confusion among her students, disrupting their learning experience.
Hale’s Facebook post was made in response to the assassination of Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University, which has attracted widespread discussions around the issue of free speech on college campuses. During a meeting with university officials, Hale reportedly faced scrutiny regarding her intentions towards students associated with the Turning Point USA chapter at Auburn. Although she was declared non-threatening, the designation contributed to her administrative leave and eventual termination.
According to her lawsuit, Hale argues that public employees have the right to free speech, particularly regarding personal opinions expressed outside their professional duties. The legal action raises concerns about academic freedom and censorship within educational institutions.
Hale’s attorney emphasized that the handling of her termination raises alarming questions about the environment of discourse within academia and the necessity of protecting faculty members’ rights to express their viewpoints. The lawsuit also references Auburn University’s academic freedom policy, which reaffirms the rights of both faculty and students to communicate ideas without fear of consequences. In light of her dismissal, Hale has expressed feelings of stress, sadness, and fear, but she has also recognized a growing courage in her pursuit of justice.
While Auburn University’s Vice President for Public Affairs stated that the university does not comment on pending litigation, no details were provided regarding the specific criteria for labeling Hale as a threat. The case continues to draw attention to the ongoing debates surrounding free speech, individual rights, and the administration’s role in upholding these principles within higher education institutions.
Background Context
Candice Hale began her tenure at Auburn University in the fall of 2023, teaching four classes each semester. The controversy surrounding her Facebook post highlights a deeper concern about the broader implications of administrative authority over faculty speech and expression. As the case develops, it remains to be seen how it will impact discussions of free speech and academic freedom across the nation.
FAQ
What led to the termination of Candice Hale from Auburn University?
Candice Hale was terminated on September 23, 2022, allegedly due to a Facebook post about the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
What was the content of Hale’s controversial social media post?
Hale’s controversial post, made on September 11, stated, “I do not mourn oppressors” and criticized individuals she labeled as “evil racist, fascist, misogynistic,” etc.
What actions did Auburn University take after Hale’s social media post?
Auburn University released a statement on September 17, announcing the termination of multiple employees for social media posts that conflict with the university’s values.
What did Hale claim about the impact of her termination on students?
Hale claimed the process disrupted the learning experience for her students and left them confused.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Termination Date | September 23, 2022 |
| Social Media Post Date | September 11, 2022 |
| University Response Date | September 17, 2022 |
| Classes Taught | Four classes per semester |
| Student Count | Around 80 to 100 students |
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Additional Resources
- WVTM13: Auburn Educator Fired Over Charlie Kirk Lawsuit
- Alabama Reflector: Former Auburn University Instructor Sues School
- AL.com: Former Alabama College Instructor Sues Over Firing
- ABC3340: Lawsuit Challenges Auburn University Firing
- Wikipedia: First Amendment to the United States Constitution
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