Free Speech Isn't Free and It Cost Charlie Kirk Everything

Kristan Hawkins reflects on the high costs of free speech on college campuses and the tragic loss of her friend Charlie Kirk.

Jan. 28, 2026 at 10:55pm

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In this op-ed, Kristan Hawkins, president of Students for Life of America, discusses the financial and logistical obstacles that student groups face when trying to exercise free speech on college campuses. From special event insurance to hiring security, the costs of hosting pro-life events have skyrocketed, putting free speech out of reach for many students. Hawkins mourns the passing of her friend Charlie Kirk, a prominent conservative speaker, and warns that the high price of free speech may silence many voices.

Why it matters

This story highlights the growing challenges that student groups, particularly those with conservative or pro-life views, face in exercising their First Amendment rights on college campuses. The financial and security burdens placed on these groups by universities can effectively price them out of the public discourse, undermining the core principles of free speech that are essential to a healthy democracy.

The details

Hawkins details the various costs associated with hosting pro-life events on college campuses, including special event insurance ($800 to $15,000+), bomb-sniffing dogs ($650), Kevlar vests ($1,000), and police/security ($1,200+). She notes that the average cost of a campus event for Students for Life has risen 25% to around $4,000, putting a significant financial strain on student organizers. Hawkins also outlines the various tactics used by universities to suppress free speech, such as the 'Vandals Veto,' 'Heckler's Veto,' and 'Power-of-the-Purse Veto,' among others.

  • At this time last year, Students for Life of America honored Charlie Kirk as their 'Defender of Life' at their sold-out National Pro-life Summit.
  • This year at the National Pro-Life March, the group's signs and messaging will celebrate Kirk's legacy.

The players

Kristan Hawkins

The president of Students for Life of America and Students for Life Action, with more than 1,600 groups on middle and high school, college and university, medical and law school campuses in all 50 states.

Charlie Kirk

A prominent conservative speaker who was honored by Students for Life of America as their 'Defender of Life' before his tragic passing.

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What they’re saying

“Silence Dogood, believed to be a pseudonym of Benjamin Franklin, wrote, 'Whoever would overthrow the liberty of a nation must begin by subduing the freeness of speech.'”

— Silence Dogood (Kristan Hawkins op-ed)

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.