University of Memphis Hosts Kyle Rittenhouse Speech

News Summary

Kyle Rittenhouse returned to the University of Memphis for a speech organized by Turning Point USA, attracting a small audience. While he faced protests outside, the event differed significantly from his earlier visit, with a more controlled atmosphere. Rittenhouse reflected on his past decisions and the changing campus climate surrounding free speech. The event sparked diverse reactions among students, highlighting the ongoing balancing act between open dialogue and controversial opinions in academic settings.

Memphis Welcomes Rittenhouse Back to Campus

In the vibrant city of Memphis, a notable event unfolded as Kyle Rittenhouse made his return to the University of Memphis this past Wednesday. This wasn’t Rittenhouse’s first visit; he previously graced the university with his presence nearly a year ago, only to be met with loud disapproval and interruptions that led to a rather abrupt exit.

Low Turnout for Rittenhouse’s Speech

This time, the atmosphere was markedly different. Approximately 40 attendees gathered in the auditorium, which had a capacity of over 330 seats. You could almost feel the spaciousness echoing as Rittenhouse began his speech around 7:15 p.m. and wrapped it up shortly after 8 p.m.. This quieter assembly was hosted by the university’s chapter of Turning Point USA (TPUSA), and the conversation centered around the Second Amendment and Rittenhouse’s harrowing experiences during his high-profile homicide trial.

Protests Outside the Event

killer on campus” and holding signs that condemned Rittenhouse’s actions. Interestingly, the turnout was much smaller than a previous protest last year, which had around 200 demonstrators voicing their discontent. Rittenhouse himself recognized the milder atmosphere and suggested that the campus had perhaps “matured a little” since his last visit.

A Tamer and Controlled Environment

Controversial Remarks and Audience Reaction

Reflections on Past Decisions

Feedback from Students and Concerns Over Control

control over attendee access, leading to an atmosphere that felt distinctly different from previous engagements with Rittenhouse. Some voiced concerns about the level of control and what it meant for open dialogue on campus.

A Change in Campus Climate

maturity in handling tough conversations.

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Additional Resources

• Commercial Appeal: Kyle Rittenhouse’s University of Memphis Speech
• Local Memphis: Rittenhouse Scheduled to Speak
• Hoodline: Sparse Attendance and Protests
• Fox News: Rittenhouse Returns to University
• The College Fix: Rittenhouse Speaks Without Violent Disruptions
• Wikipedia: Kyle Rittenhouse
• Google Search: Kyle Rittenhouse
• Google Scholar: Kyle Rittenhouse
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Kyle Rittenhouse
• Google News: Kyle Rittenhouse

Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER

The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.