On October 14th, coinciding with the 32nd birthday of American conservative youth leader, Charlie Kirk, several elected officials, candidates, and community representatives gathered in front of Hayward City Hall to call for unity in stopping political violence, defending democratic values, and upholding freedom of speech and public safety.
The event was initiated by the Coalition for Community Engagement. Founder Edward Escobar expressed concerns about the increasing instances of politically motivated violence and intimidation in society. From the assault on Paul Pelosi to the attack on community advocate Seneca Scott by former Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao’s security, and even death threats to Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee, the safety of democratic participants has been seriously threatened.
Escobar stated: “These events are not isolated incidents, but rather a systematic suppression against citizens speaking out. We cannot stand idly by anymore.” Escobar led the crowd in chanting, “Stop political violence!” emphasizing the government’s responsibility to ensure people can express their opinions in a safe environment.
Mayor Carmen Montano of Milpitas made a special appearance to show her support, highlighting the prevalence of online and in-person attacks tarnishing personal reputations despite everyone’s right to express opinions.
She urged: “People have the right to express their views, but should not harm others with insults or lies.” She stressed that democracy should be built on civility.
Santa Clara County District Attorney candidate for 2026, Daniel Chung, spoke as an individual, emphasizing that the root of the violence problem lies in people losing mutual respect and care. He emphasized that as a Democrat, “we cannot selectively condemn violence. Whether left or right-wing, whenever someone is threatened or attacked, we should stand up.” He reminded that the Bay Area is a community that should engage in dialogue with a neighborly spirit.
Former Union City City Council candidate Wendy Huang called for the acknowledgment of the crisis of normalized political violence in society. She recounted facing verbal and physical threats during her 2024 campaign. She emphasized: “Today is Charlie Kirk’s birthday, we must remember that speaking up for freedom should not come at the cost of life.” She called for town halls and community gatherings to return to fields of rational dialogue instead of hate and fear battlegrounds.
Jennifer Kavouniaris mentioned there is only one race in the world, the human race; in her eyes, there is no Republican or Democratic divide, but all are American citizens. She urged unity to bravely speak up for beliefs, rejecting political harassment and violent threats.
Hayward mayoral candidate Tom Wong, who also runs two businesses, stressed the importance of journalists as essential conduits of public information, equating attacking the media to silencing truths. “Regardless of political stances, freedom of speech should be defended.” He told the Epoch Times that society can host different opinions, but must be based on respect and rational discussion, while being vigilant against those using the pretext of “restoring order” to actually undermine freedom.
Hayward resident Charles Taylor shared his experience of being verbally abused and doused with water at the “No Kings Rally” event in Fremont. He said, “I was peacefully participating, yet faced intimidation. My wife is now afraid and dares not leave the house.” He emphasized that regardless of political stance, every American has the right to speak up. “The silent majority has been silent for too long, now we must speak up, awaken, take action, and no longer stand idly by. Elected officials must listen to our voices because we are the voters, we are the ones who can change the status quo.”
71-year-old Filipino-Chinese immigrant Mary Yang, who has been in the US for 40 years, expressed witnessing American society go from harmony to division. “In the past, even with differing opinions, people could respect each other; now, insults and threats are common. The government no longer seems to care about people’s safety and livelihood.” She said she attended the event out of faith: “Regardless of race or political stance, we should coexist peacefully, as taught by faith.”
Wendy Huang told the Epoch Times that holding the gathering on Charlie Kirk’s birthday was meaningful, not just to commemorate him but also symbolize continuing his spirit of standing for truth fearlessly. She emphasized that political differences should not be excuses for violence. Disagreements can be debated but should not replace dialogue with attacks or threats. Such actions go against the American spirit, bordering on tyranny. ◇