Knoxville, Tennessee, September 30, 2025
News Summary
Tamar Shirinian, an assistant professor at the University of Tennessee, is appealing her suspension following a Facebook comment referring to the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk as a positive event. Shirinian expressed regret for her remarks in her appeal letter and highlighted concerns about academic freedom and social media conduct. The university’s actions have sparked debate over free speech in academic settings, especially as Shirinian contrasts her treatment with another faculty member’s controversial statements without repercussions.
KNOXVILLE, TENNESSEE — Cultural anthropology assistant professor Tamar Shirinian is appealing the University of Tennessee at Knoxville’s attempt to fire her following a controversial social media comment related to the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The university suspended Shirinian shortly after she made a Facebook comment, which was shared by conservative activist Robby Starbuck, in which she referred to Kirk’s death as a positive event and used derogatory language toward Kirk’s wife.
The university’s immediate response included an investigation into Shirinian’s post, with Chancellor Donde Plowman citing “gross misconduct” as the reason for her suspension on September 15. Shirinian’s appeal comes after she expressed deep regret in her appeal letter, denouncing the act of political violence. In the letter, she described her comment as having been made “out of anger and grief,” admitting it was “ineloquent and heartless.” She apologized and asserted that her comment was uncharacteristic of her values as a mother, friend, and social justice advocate.
After Starbuck shared her comment on September 14, Shirinian faced a hostile backlash online, receiving threats and insults. Despite the controversy, she emphasized that she did not endorse or incite violence against Kirk. In her appeal, she elaborated on the feelings surrounding her comment, citing her Armenian heritage and the genocide in Gaza as factors that influenced her reactions. Shirinian articulated her distress about Kirk’s past comments and noted how his rhetoric could harm various social issues.
In her examination of the situation, Shirinian criticized the university for its decision to discipline her, drawing a contrast with a previous case involving law professor Glenn Reynolds, who faced no repercussions for comments suggesting running down protesters. When asked about Reynolds’ past statements, Chancellor Plowman declined to comment.
Shirinian’s appeal requests a reconsideration of the termination decision, stating that if she were to be fired, she would consider appealing and pursuing legal action. The university community is watching closely as this situation unfolds, with implications for academic freedom and freedom of speech coming to the fore.
Background on Controversy and Academic Freedom
Shirinian’s contentious comment and the university’s disciplinary action highlight ongoing debates about free speech in academic settings. This incident occurs against a backdrop of increased scrutiny of faculty members’ social media activity and the potential consequences for their employment. Commentary around these topics often involves finding a delicate balance between encouraging open dialogue and maintaining a respectful and safe learning environment.
Questions have arisen about how institutions respond to statements made by their employees, particularly when those comments provoke backlash or diverge from mainstream sentiment. The contrasting treatment of Shirinian and Reynolds has sparked discussions among academics, students, and advocates for free speech.
Conclusion
As the appeal process continues, the outcome may set a precedent for how universities handle similar situations in the future, potentially influencing policies on faculty conduct and social media engagement.
FAQ
What prompted the University of Tennessee to suspend Professor Shirinian?
The university suspended Shirinian shortly after she made a Facebook comment referring to the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk as a positive event and used derogatory language toward Kirk’s wife.
What has Professor Shirinian said about her comment?
In her appeal letter, Shirinian expressed deep regret and denounced political violence, stating her comment was made “out of anger and grief,” and was “ineloquent and heartless.”
What is the reaction of the academic community to this incident?
The university community is observing the situation closely, considering its implications for academic freedom and speech.
What will happen next for Professor Shirinian?
Shirinian has requested that the university reconsider the termination decision. If fired, she has stated that she plans to appeal and consider legal action.
Key Features of the Incident:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Defendant | Professor Tamar Shirinian |
| Institution | University of Tennessee at Knoxville |
| Comment Context | Response to Charlie Kirk’s assassination |
| Consequences | Suspension and potential termination |
| Key Issues | Free speech, academic freedom, social media conduct |
| Next Steps | Appeal process pending |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
University of Tennessee Considers Termination of Professor Over Controversial Comments
University of Tennessee Faces Backlash Over Professor’s Firing
Disciplinary Actions Taken Against UT Knoxville Professor
Shooting of Conservative Activist Raises Concern Over Political Violence
Houston Texans Hold Moment of Silence for Victims
University of Tennessee Suspends Professor Over Inflammatory Remarks
University of Tennessee Suspends Professor Over Controversial Comments
Additional Resources
- Knox News: Tamar Shirinian’s Appeal
- WATE: Chancellor Plowman’s Vision for UT Knoxville
- WBIR: Former UT Chancellor Bill Snyder Passes Away
- Wikipedia: Academic Freedom
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Free Speech
Author: STAFF HERE KNOXVILLE WRITER
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