Students at Marist Catholic High School in Eugene are voicing their concerns following the dismissal of a teacher who allegedly made comments about the recently deceased conservative activist Charlie Kirk. In a letter addressed to parents on Tuesday, Principal Bob Fraley announced that theology instructor Jack Kiesewetter would no longer be teaching at the school, although he did not provide further details regarding the decision.
While KLCC was unable to confirm the specifics of Kiesewetter’s comments about Kirk, several students indicated that the remarks were made on school grounds. According to anonymous parents, Kiesewetter reportedly described Kirk as someone who “spread hate” and labeled him a “fascist.” Additionally, parents allege that he made comments regarding women’s reproductive rights, further fueling the controversy.
In response to the situation, more than 440 individuals have signed a petition calling for the school to reconsider its decision regarding Kiesewetter’s employment. On Friday, students organized a brief walkout to express their dissent, although school officials restricted reporters from entering campus during the event.
Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA, was tragically shot and killed earlier this month while delivering a speech in Utah. Following his death, some conservative activists have actively sought to have individuals fired for celebrating the incident online or for criticizing Kirk’s views. This climate of tension has led to additional protests; earlier this week, students at Thurston High School staged a walkout in opposition to a teacher’s comments related to Kirk’s murder, as reported by KVAL.
The incident at Marist has sparked a broader conversation about free speech and the boundaries of expression within educational settings, as students rally to support their teacher while navigating the complexities of political discourse in the current climate.
