Overview

• New Deseret News opinion pieces published Sept. 21 respond to the Sept. 10 killing by describing local grief, canceled classes and protests, and some campaigns put on hold.
• The writers argue that shielding students from opposing views and equating words with violence have weakened norms of civil disagreement.
• They cite Wall Street Journal research reporting that 44% of Gen Z express openness to using violence against ideas they oppose, far above older cohorts.
• The commentary situates the event within a broader pattern that includes shots fired at President Donald Trump, the murders of Minnesota lawmakers, a Salt Lake rally shooting and the attack on Paul Pelosi.
• Proposed steps include rejecting demonizing language, modeling respectful debate and rebuilding habits of listening to prevent further erosion of civic life.