Women’s basketball star Flau’jae Johnson, representing the LSU Tigers, has publicly expressed her discontent regarding a statue proposal for the late conservative influencer Charlie Kirk. Jeff Landry, the Governor of Louisiana, suggested that the LSU Board of Supervisors find a suitable location for the statue to honor Kirk’s contributions to the conversation around freedom of speech on college campuses.
Kirk, who passed away at the age of 31 in September 2025 after a shooting incident, had a significant following among conservative circles. His legacy has sparked varied reactions, particularly in the context of his controversial views on race and society. Johnson’s response to the statue proposal came through social media, where she voiced her concerns directly.
In a tweet, Johnson reacted to the announcement with a series of question marks, indicating her disbelief. She followed up with a more pointed message, stating, “For the sake of clarity, if you align yourself with or endorse his racist rhetoric and discriminatory views toward people of color, I respectfully ask that you utilize the unfollow option at the top right of my profile.” Her comments have drawn attention, reflecting ongoing debates about race and representation in American society.
Johnson’s stance has resonated with many, particularly among those who share her concerns about Kirk’s legacy. The athlete’s call for followers to reassess their support highlights the growing tensions surrounding public monuments and the narratives they promote. The discussion around Kirk’s statue proposal has not only reignited debates about free speech but also raised questions about how society chooses to honor figures with contentious histories.
As the LSU community and broader public engage with this issue, it remains to be seen how the Board of Supervisors will respond to Landry’s proposal. Johnson’s vocal opposition underscores the importance of these discussions in shaping the cultural landscape, particularly in educational environments where freedom of expression is paramount.
This situation illustrates the ongoing challenges and complexities surrounding issues of race, representation, and the values that public monuments signify. The dialogue initiated by Johnson may serve as an important reminder of the diverse perspectives that exist within any community, particularly one as influential as that of LSU.
