On the evening of November 10th, Turning Point USA held a tour speech event at the University of California, Berkeley. Outside the venue, nearly a hundred people protested, leading to tense moments as protesters even knocked down barricades in an attempt to rush in before being arrested by law enforcement.
Prior to the event, dozens of protesters gathered at the entrance next to Zellerbach Hall, holding up signs such as “We won the war, why are there still Nazis” and “No room for fascist traitors,” while waving Palestinian flags.
Dozens of UC Police and California Highway Patrol officers were stationed in front of the hall, with at least three police helicopters circling overhead.
In the midst of the protests, barricades were pushed down by agitated protesters, prompting law enforcement to respond with riot guns. Reporters on the scene heard five to six shots fired, believed to be gunshots. Protesters also threw glass bottles towards the venue, and a protester with yellow hair rushed in before being subdued by police.
Security measures were immediately increased by the organizers, preventing reporters from re-entering the venue.
Turning Point USA, founded by Charlie Kirk, is a student organization. Following Kirk’s tragic shooting death in September during a speech in Utah, the organization’s chapters have rapidly expanded. This event marked their first in the Bay Area since Kirk’s passing.
The event was sold out with around 1,900 tickets reportedly sold, and the organizers stated that it was held to honor Kirk’s legacy and commitment to speaking the truth, inspiring youth, and defending freedom.
Notable figures such as comedian Rob Schneider and Christian author Frank Turek were invited as guest speakers for the event.
An attendee, Annette Summers, expressed her interest in listening to the speakers and observing the reaction they would receive in Berkeley. She condemned Kirk’s assassination, describing him as a good person who offered everyone a platform to speak, regardless of differences.
Summers pointed out the difference in approach between conservative figures like Kirk and the protesters, emphasizing the importance of respecting others despite disagreements. She criticized the protesters for resorting to violence, contrasting it with the peaceful ideals upheld by her group.
Summers highlighted the societal issues in the region, citing the mistreatment of homeless individuals and those suffering from mental illnesses, questioning the true compassion of the liberal ideology. She advocated for a path of faith in God as a solution to societal challenges.
During the event, some attendees waved flags and sang the national anthem, showcasing their patriotism.
As the event was set to begin, footage shared on Turning Point USA’s social media revealed an ANTIFA member setting off a signal flare, leading to emergency evacuations of participants indoors. Following this incident, a car arrived to extinguish the flare, causing confusion and fear among those present as they mistook the sounds for gunfire.
Despite these disruptions, the event continued as planned with participants reaffirming their commitment to their beliefs and causes.