In an overwhelming 17-2 vote from Drake University’s student leadership, Turning Point USA will not receive university endorsement to spread the conservative message of freedom, free markets, and limited government on campus.

This means that TPUSA student activists will not be granted the ability to reserve campus resources, receive university financial assistance, or open financial accounts.

In a statement published by the Foundation for Individual Rights in Education (FIRE), which worked with Turning Point USA in appealing to Drake University’s administration, TPUSA student activist Andie Morrissey expressed disappointment in the biased decision, and the inaction of the university to defend free speech.

“A university that prides itself on being inclusive can’t seem to understand that being inclusive involves including those you disagree with.”

TPUSA student activist, Andie Morrissey

FIRE appealed directly to Drake University’s administration in a 5-page formal complaint, condemning the student senate’s vote as a clear reflection of discrimination against Turning Point USA for being a conservative, pro-American organization, and calling on Drake University to uphold First Amendment rights for all students:

The refusal to grant TPUSA recognition because some members of the Student Senate and campus community oppose TPUSA’s real or perceived views hinders free and open dialogue on campus—to the detriment of all Drake students.

FIRE, Letter to Drake University

A video obtained by FIRE also shows a Drake University student senator condemning beliefs he doesn’t agree with as “harmful” and that students didn’t “feel the need” to have TPUSA on campus.

In the same video, a student leader accuses TPUSA of being “actively racist, transphobic, [and] anti-semitic.”

Turning Point USA will not be discouraged by false claims made by biased student leadership, or discouraged from spreading our conservative message to students on campus.

It is important now more than ever for conservative students to refuse the stripping of their constitutional rights and RISE UP against censorship—especially when it comes from their student peers.

That’s why Turning Point USA continues to rise up for those who are clearly bullied into silence by the “tolerant” left—and has even launched a new campaign for this purpose:

The RISE OF THE CITIZEN campaign encourages and empowers students, parents, and all freedom-loving patriots to push back against anti-American leftism wherever they find it.

Learn more about the RISE OF THE CITIZEN by visiting TPUSA.com/rise.

Join our movement, because the TPUSA student activists at Drake University will continue to rise up and make their voices heard!