By Joy Essien
Depending on what side of the divide you’re on, whether liberal or conservative, one thing is certain, no one deserves to be eliminated for having a strong opinion and influence on issues they’re passionate about. Definitely not in this era.
Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, a U.S.-based conservative student movement known for campus activism and debates, and a leading conservative voice, a young man 31, father of 2 little children and a young wife’s life was just cut short at Utah Valley University, a public university in Orem, Utah, while giving a speech.
Some say it’s karma because of his stance on gun control (Kirk has repeatedly opposed stricter federal gun regulations, arguing for Second Amendment protections) and this begs the question, “Is death the penalty for having an opinion and public support?”
Society would be falling into a chasm of chaos if these things are not checked. There’s a popular saying that everyone is entitled to an opinion and this is because having an opinion is free. Do we now keep mum because we fear what we think or how we feel can endanger our lives?
Kirk is said to be one who engages respectfully, no matter the level of foolishness in display, arrogance or insults/ridicule thrown at him. He always agreed to disagree and allowed those with contrary views speak while he countered. (Supporters often cite his frequent appearances on U.S. college campuses and podcasts as examples of his willingness to debate opponents without rancour.)
In the world today, the whole message of tolerance is always preached until a contrary view is expressed. When one says what others don’t like, intolerance becomes the order of the day followed by demonizing and the cancel culture.
In an era that is said to be at its most progressive, this is totally absurd. The world has become too sensitive and easily triggered with humans applauding what should be frowned at, punished even. The whole incident has a political undertone and political violence in public life should be shunned and not encouraged. (Observers note that politically motivated violence against public speakers has risen in several countries, prompting renewed debate about security at open events.)
The world can do better.
- Joy Essien is a contributing editor for Lagos Metropolitan
