California State University San Marcos confirmed that a lecturer is no longer teaching after a TikTok video went viral showing her telling a student to “get the f— out of my class” when he asked about statistics on alcoholism among Native Americans. The clip, posted on September 17, quickly spread across social media, prompting the university to issue a statement on September 18.
University response
In a TikTok comment and a written statement, CSU San Marcos said it is “focused on maintaining respectful learning environments that support inquiry and meaningful discussion, including difficult and sensitive subjects.” The school added that it is “committed to providing a safe and welcoming space where all members of our community can learn, grow and thrive” and that it is reviewing the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Details of the confrontation
The incident began when a student asked the lecturer, identified by The College Fix as Persephone Lewis, for statistics on alcoholism rates among Native Americans. Lewis responded with profanity, repeatedly telling the student to leave the classroom. In one clip she said, “So get up and get the f— out of my class right now,” and later added, “You did this s— on purpose, you are out of my class. I am dropping you.”
Lewis later told The College Fix that the video was “heavily edited” and did not show the full context of the exchange. The university has not provided a full transcript of the discussion.
Background on the lecturer
Lewis is listed on the University of California, San Diego website as a fifth‑year Ph.D. candidate in the Education Studies Department. Her LinkedIn profile states she completed her doctorate in June 2024. She describes herself as a citizen of the Yomba Shoshone Tribe and notes a long history of work with tribal nations, nonprofit organizations, and Indigenous advocacy.
Implications for academic freedom
While the university emphasizes a “respectful” learning environment, many observers argue that the swift removal of the lecturer raises concerns about academic freedom and the ability of educators to address controversial topics. The incident highlights the tension between protecting students from perceived harassment and preserving open, honest inquiry in higher education.
What comes next
CSU San Marcos said it will continue to review the incident and determine any further actions. The university’s statement placed the review near the top of its response, indicating the matter is being taken seriously.
For now, the lecturer is no longer in the classroom, and the university has pledged to ensure that future discussions on sensitive subjects can occur in a manner that respects both student concerns and faculty authority.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
