Southern University has suspended and is investigating law Professor Kelly Carmena over her celebration of political activist Charlie Kirk’s murder.
Shortly after Kirk’s death, Carmena made a Facebook post stating: “I will 1000% wish death on people like him. He is the epitome of evil, and I have no compassion, not even a minute ounce of it for people like him who go around spewing hate the way he does.”
Her Facebook profile says “protect trans kids” and “show love.”
Carmena did not respond to requests for comment from The Fix.
University Board Chairman Tony Clayton told news outlets that Carmena spread speech that “is tantamount to participating and inciting violence.”
“Distasteful statements should not be tolerated particularly as it relates to death,” Clayton said. “That is tantamount to participating and inciting violence and spewing hate.”
Southern University is located in Baton Rouge. Its director of communications, I’Tyonnie Jackson, sent The Fix a statement saying the “Law Center is aware of a recent social media post involving one of our employees that has raised concern.”
“The views expressed in that post are the individual’s own and do not reflect the values or positions of the Law Center. We are reviewing this matter in accordance with the institution’s personnel policies and procedures. The Law Center is committed to fostering an environment of respect, inclusivity, and professionalism both online and offline.”
Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill told reporters the “comments posted by this individual were abhorrent.”
“Whatever your opinion is of Charlie, his assassination marked a dark day for all Americans and should be resoundingly condemned,” she said. “This individual has a constitutional right to have opinions and social media amplifies them. But she does not have a right to teach at a public law school.”
Murill also condemned similar celebrations of Kirk’s murder, calling for “consequences.”
Hellbound and Down 