A conservative activist group called Fearless Debates was removed from Tennessee State University in Nashville after attempting a surprise campus visit and tabling event. The episode escalated into shouting and students hurling objections at the group, prompting university officials to intervene.
The group’s mission was to spark discourse on topics like immigration and DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion). Their signs read “DEI should be illegal” and “Deport all illegals now.” According to reports, the group had no prior permission to be on campus under TSU’s demonstration policy, which requires advance approval.
Campus footage and witness accounts show students surrounding the group, shouting at them, and throwing items such as a drink and a BLM poster at the vehicle belonging to group members Cam Higby and David Khait. University police and staff escorted the group off campus without reported violent confrontation.
TSU issued a statement asserting that it prioritizes the safety and well‑being of its campus community. The university noted the visitors lacked authorization, saying they “appeared on campus without prior notice” and that its response conformed with its policies. The NAACP Nashville chapter criticized the visit as a provocative act aimed at undermining historically Black university spaces.
Critics argue the incident demonstrates an uneven playing field for conservative voices in higher education. Supporters of the group claim this was a direct suppression of free speech, especially given that past stops on their tour reportedly proceeded without incident.
