Photo: Getty Images North America
Hampton University removed members of the Black conservative group BLEXIT from its campus during Homecoming weekend after the organization attempted to hold an event without authorization.
BLEXIT, founded by Candace Owens and supported by late conservative figure Charlie Kirk’s Turning Point USA, had planned to engage with students at multiple HBCU homecomings this year. According to TheGrio, campus police escorted BLEXIT off the property, saying the group never received approval to set up or film on campus.
“This was not a matter of suppression; it was a matter of safety, procedure, and fairness,” the university said in a statement. “Hampton University is aware of an incident involving representatives of an organization known as BLEXIT who attempted to access campus during Homecoming weekend without proper authorization.”
As a private institution, Hampton requires all outside groups to submit vendor applications, pay required fees, and obtain approval for media activity. The university said BLEXIT failed to meet these requirements, despite being informed in advance of the consequences.
“This procedural failure meant they were not approved to participate, consistent with University policy and communicated in advance to all applicants. Of the 36 applications submitted, 18 were approved; BLEXIT was among those that did not meet the stated requirements,” the university said in a statement.
BLEXIT member Craig Long disputed the university’s account, claiming the removal was politically motivated rather than procedural.
“But instead of celebrating that spirit of open discussion, the university shut it down — claiming we ‘didn’t go through the proper channels.’ Let’s be honest: this wasn’t about paperwork. It was about politics,” Long said, asserting that their “Christian values, conservative principles, and independent thought” led to their silencing.
Hampton said it welcomes differing viewpoints, provided that outside organizations follow established protocols to ensure the safety of students and guests.
“Hampton University welcomes organizations and speakers representing a variety of perspectives, provided they follow the established protocols. BLEXIT failed to meet those standards,” the school said.
The Black Information Network is your source for Black News! Get the latest news 24/7 on The Black Information Network. Listen now on the iHeartRadio app or click HERE to tune in live.