Utah Valley University (UVU) has canceled its commencement speaker after widespread backlash over her past comments about Charlie Kirk, the conservative activist killed on campus in September. The university announced on Thursday that Sharon McMahon, an author and educator, would no longer speak at the ceremony due to safety concerns.
McMahon had criticized Kirk in social media posts following his assassination, stating that his rhetoric had harmed marginalized groups. The decision to remove her as a speaker came amid criticism from conservatives, including Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT), who questioned whether a conservative criticizing a liberal figure would have faced similar treatment.
Kirk was shot and killed on September 10, 2026, during a public speaking event at UVU. The alleged shooter, Tyler Robinson, has been arrested and faces multiple charges, including aggravated murder. The university’s decision to cancel the commencement speaker has sparked debate over free speech, political violence, and institutional neutrality.
McMahon’s spokesperson emphasized that she had condemned Kirk’s murder and stressed the importance of nonviolent debate. The university cited safety concerns as the primary reason for the cancellation, though no specific threats were disclosed.
The incident has reignited discussions about campus free speech and the role of universities in political controversies. Some conservatives argue that McMahon’s selection was a deliberate slight to Kirk’s legacy, while others defend her right to critique his views without facing professional repercussions.