Senator Paul urges KWC newcomers to be themselves and emphasizes the importance of freedom of expression

U.S. Senator Rand Paul on Saturday urged Kentucky Wesleyan College freshmen to continue to courageously share their opinions, perspectives and stories, even in difficult times. Paul's commencement address ushered in the first year of study for the class of 2028 as part of the orientation event.

Paul opened his speech by recalling the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on civic life and education and spoke about conversations around freedom of expression. He said that through the efforts of people like Elon Musk with the X-platform, society can see important impacts on freedom of expression.

“The First Amendment is not about protecting innocently expressed nice things and pleasantries. It is about tolerating the expression of opinions with which we disagree,” he said.

Even as the country recovers from the pandemic, it remains important to listen and reach out to others without silencing them, Paul said.

Citing cases across the country where people have been prevented from speaking in various places, particularly schools, Paul noted that academia should not be a place where students, faculty and speakers are policed ​​in their speech.

“Once controlling free speech is acceptable, it's a small step to controlling behavior,” Paul said. “…The answer to free speech and speakers you don't like is not for the government to lock up the opponent or kick them off campus. The answer is simply more free speech, more debate, more freedom – not less.”

He pointed out that while diversity has become an important topic of discussion in recent times, throughout history it has been “the diversity of thought and ideas” that has brought progress to humanity.

In this spirit, he urged the students never to forget to stay true to themselves and to bring their perspectives into every discussion.

“You have every reason to be optimistic about your future. There has truly never been a better time to begin your journey through life,” he said. “Let no obstacle discourage you; let no authority defeat you. Think for yourself, strive for excellence and, most importantly, live a life of curiosity, honesty and conviction.”