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Former UCLA DEI Director Claims Firing Over Kirk Comments

1/16/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Johnathan Perkins, the former University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) DEI director, says he was fired for not expressing sadness over Charlie Kirk's assassination.
He started a GoFundMe for a potential lawsuit against UCLA.
Perkins posted messages suggesting Kirk deserved his fate, which led to his suspension and termination.
UCLA says it supports free expression but condemns celebrations of violence.

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Story summary

Johnathan Perkins, the former University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) DEI director, says he was fired for not expressing sadness over Charlie Kirk's assassination.
He started a GoFundMe for a potential lawsuit against UCLA.
Perkins posted messages suggesting Kirk deserved his fate, which led to his suspension and termination.
UCLA says it supports free expression but condemns celebrations of violence.