On March 23rd, a campus debate on “Is socialism real or fake” took place in front of the library of Cerritos College in Norwalk, Los Angeles County. The debate attracted hundreds of passing students who stopped to watch, some genuinely interested in the discussion while others aimed to disrupt. The four-hour debate saw moments of chaos and disagreement.
Amy Phan West, a council member from Westminster in Orange County and a congressional candidate for the 45th district, was the main debater. West emphasized the importance of dialogue and bringing people together, citing the consequences of miscommunication and misunderstandings leading to various issues and potential conflicts.
West’s banner read: “Only the poor, stupid, lazy, and ugly people would want socialism, come challenge me.” She stated, “I knew this would certainly grab everyone’s attention.”
The 45th Congressional District spans Orange County and Los Angeles County, with a total of 8 candidates this year, including prominent figures like former Congressman Yinzhuo Pu. West, supported by candidates such as Dennis Feitosa for the 30th congressional district and Araceli Martinez for the 30th state senator, participated in the debate.
After the booths were set up, the first student began asking questions, quickly drawing a crowd. Most students stayed for a while, with one staying almost until the end, expressing interest in hearing different perspectives on socialism.
As the debate progressed, chaos ensued with attendees struggling to hear due to the lack of microphones, a candidate constantly shouting accusations of white supremacy against those opposing her, and students interjecting with opposing political statements.
Campus police stood by throughout the event. West, reflecting after the event, mentioned unexpected disruptions, including her children being targeted with verbal abuse. Despite the chaotic situation, she expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage with students and listen to their concerns.
Founded in 1955 after a vote by residents of seven cities in Los Angeles County, Cerritos College enrolled 35,000 students for the 2024-25 academic year, with 70% being Hispanic. The college offers 97 departments and 284 majors with a successful track record in producing national-level professional athletes in football and baseball.
West highlighted the deceptive nature of socialist theories, citing failed promises in Venezuela where the ruling class instead reaped benefits. Notably, she shared her family’s history of fleeing communism and emphasized the importance of preserving democracy and free speech.
A septuagenarian, not disclosing whether a student or teacher, offered a different definition of socialism, advocating for government responsibility in addressing societal issues and imposing higher taxes on large corporations and the wealthy.
Another student, a political science major, criticized the event organizers for disturbing the peace and harassing students, advocating for socialism as the next step towards public ownership of resources, appealing to ordinary individuals.
The debate also touched on topics beyond socialism such as abortion, transgender communities, healthcare, homelessness, prices, elections, partisan disputes, the Trump administration, crime, and immigration.
Student Maya found the debate engaging, taking a neutral stance to understand both sides. Amid the chaos, she expressed a desire for peaceful discussions on issues. In her first year at the community college, she plans to transfer to a state university due to affordability and ease of transition.
Regarding the anticipated voter ID referendum in the upcoming November election, she remains undecided on voting “Yes” or “No” but is determined to cast her vote. She concluded by condemning the idea of resorting to violence due to differing viewpoints, referencing the importance of peaceful dialogue.