After a previous appearance at the University of Washington was cut short by aggressive protests, Olivia Krolczyk, ambassador for the Riley Gaines Center, is set to return to the campus on Tuesday, May 6. Joined by Riley Gaines herself, Krolczyk plans to resume her advocacy for women’s sports and free speech—this time, with added security and renewed determination.
Speaking on The Ari Hoffman Show on Talk Radio 570 KVI, Krolczyk recalled the chaos of her last visit. “They were throwing noisemakers, sealing people in rooms, pulling fire alarms,” she said, describing a scene where protestors disrupted the event to such an extent that it had to be canceled.
When asked how the protests & violence at @UW compared to other schools she’s visited, @oliviakrolczyk_ said:
“University of Washington might be the worst campus to ever exist in the entire history of campuses. But then again, I was held hostage there, so I might be biased.” pic.twitter.com/ny1RvIiv8V
— Ari Hoffman 🎗 (@thehoffather) May 5, 2025
Despite that experience, Krolczyk says the mission is worth continuing. “The truth matters. And the truth prevails,” she told Hoffman. “Women deserve privacy, safety, and respect in their sports. We don’t need trans women competing and taking away scholarships and opportunities from countless women.”
Krolczyk filed a federal complaint following the initial incident, citing the university’s failure to uphold student safety and free expression. While she has not yet received an update, she remains hopeful. “These things can take time—up to 180 days—but I’m optimistic we’ll hear something soon.”
The Riley Gaines Center, where Krolczyk serves as an ambassador, focuses on advocacy for women’s rights in sports, free speech on campuses, and legal support for students facing institutional pushback. “Most of my work is speaking at campuses about my experience—being failed for using the term ‘biological woman,’” she said. “We also provide support for individuals dealing with similar issues.”
When asked how the protests and violence at the University of Washington compare to other schools she’s visited, Krolczyk didn’t hold back: “University of Washington might be the worst campus to ever exist in the entire history of campuses. But then again, I was held hostage there, so I might be biased.”
She added that while other schools like the University of Maine and Berkeley also see heavy protest activity, they at least attempt to maintain order and allow events to proceed. “At University of Washington, it seems like they allow the inmates to run the asylum,” Hoffman commented, a sentiment Krolczyk didn’t dispute.
The university has not directly communicated with Krolczyk, but she noted that she and Gaines are taking no chances this time around. “We’ll be bringing plenty of security. I would think the University of Washington would be smart enough to cover their tails at this point.”
She also pointed out that the school is already offering “safe spaces and counseling” for students who may be upset by her and Gaines’ presence. “Apparently, Riley and I are ‘tough stuff’ on campus,” she said, quoting university communications.
As for the upcoming visit, Krolczyk and Gaines are preparing for potential resistance—but remain focused on their message. “We’re not melting snowflakes like them,” she said with a laugh.
Olivia Krolczyk’s return to the University of Washington is shaping up to be a high-profile moment in the ongoing national debate over free speech, campus activism, and the future of women’s sports.
Olivia Krolczyk and Riley Gaines will be speaking on May 6th at 6:15 pm at the University of Washington’s Ethnic Cultural Theater.
Listen to The Ari Hoffman Show, weekdays 3-6 PM Pacific on Talk Radio 570 KVI, 101.5 FM HD-3, KVI.com & the KVI app. Subscribe to the show on your preferred podcast platform.
