A University of Texas at San Antonio student who sparked controversy after reciting a poem mocking the assassination of Charlie Kirk has released a video apology, acknowledging that her remarks were inappropriate and hurtful.
Isabela Casahuga Lemgruber, 19, apologized to Kirk’s widow, their children and the Kirk family for her comments at a September 23, 2026, campus event.
“First, I’d like to directly apologize to Miss Erika Kirk, her children, and the entire Kirk family. My words were deeply insensitive, to say the least, particularly considering the unfathomable loss your family has experienced,” she said in the apology video.
The poem and the university response
As previously reported by The Dallas Express, UT San Antonio confirmed that it was reviewing the student’s conduct after video of her poem at a September 23 “Pick Up the Mic” event with Christian Collins circulated online. The poem described the anniversary of Kirk’s assassination as the “Kirkiversary.”
She also apologized to Christian Collins, the host of the campus event.
“There’s nothing acceptable or funny about political violence, and much less the loss of a person’s life. Regardless of our political beliefs or opinions, we should all strive to treat one another with the utmost respect, compassion, and above all dignity,” she said.
Collins responded to the apology, stating, “… of course I forgive you. I’ve already forgiven you and haven’t stopped praying for you.” Collins would go on to encourage Isa to “get her heart right with Jesus,” inviting her to reach out to discuss further if she desired.
Isa apologized. Here is my response. pic.twitter.com/zxEPNU40FK
— Christian Collins (@CollinsforTX) November 2, 2026
The University of Texas System previously addressed the incident in a joint statement from Board of Regents Chairman Kevin Eltife and Chancellor John Zerwas.
“We have been apprised of the incident at UT San Antonio. Let us be clear — we will not tolerate the incitement of violence or the threat of incitement of violence by any member of our UT community. UT San Antonio will handle this incident consistent with the law.”
Faith and a second chance
In her apology, the student invoked her faith and acknowledged that her comments fell short of her professed values.
“My faith teaches me the importance of humility, compassion, and above all forgiveness. And I recognize the fact that my words did not reflect those values on September 23,” she said.
“I know that an apology can’t undo what I said, and I don’t expect everyone to forgive me after this. But I sincerely hope that through my actions, I can learn from this experience and eventually earn a second chance in life. Thank you.”
UT San Antonio spokesman Joe Izbrand previously told The Dallas Express that the university was reviewing the circumstances through its student conduct process. In that response, the university did not disclose any disciplinary action.
The Dallas Express reached out to Lemgruber’s parents for comment but did not receive a response.
Provided by Dallas Express
