What is radicalism in education and on college campuses?

Answer: Campus radicals are individuals or groups, including students, professors and other faculty members, who advocate for significant political or social change within college environments. They engage in protests, demonstrations and various forms of activism to challenge opposing views and promote their beliefs and ideologies.

Campus radicals often focus on liberal issues such as social justice, environmentalism, anti-racism, LGBT issues and other progressive causes. Their actions can be controversial and disruptive as they attempt to reshape educational systems and influence those with differing perspectives.

Answer: Many universities in major cities within blue states experience significant campus radicalism.

In New York City , Columbia University has witnessed radical movements, including instances of antisemitism toward Jewish students.

Harvard University in Massachusetts has faced challenges related to free speech and protest management, prompting government intervention for better handling. Other locations across the United States, such as Chicago, various cities in California and colleges in North Carolina, have also seen demonstrations by campus radicals.

Answer: Campus radicalism has intensified and evolved rapidly over time, driven by social media, online petitions and new tactics.

Universities have increasingly offered students programs, classes and platforms to engage in activism. There has been a rise in protests related to ICE, antisemitism and anti-Trump sentiments, with campus radicals demonstrating across the United States.

Following the shooting death of Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, an organization dedicated to promoting conservative youth activism on high school and college campuses, campus radicals have engaged in controversial actions, such as mocking his assassination and disrupting TPUSA events on campuses. Kirk was shot and killed on Sept. 10, 2025, at a speaking event at Utah Valley University.