How UC Berkeley is preparing for Turning Point’s tour stop after Charlie Kirk’s death

UC Berkeley Prepares for Turning Point USA Tour Stop After Charlie Kirk's Death

Campus officials at UC Berkeley are keeping security details private but confirm they are ready to host the conservative organization Turning Point USA on November 10. This event follows the assassination of the group's founder, Charlie Kirk, nearly two months earlier at Utah Valley University.

Background on the Event and Organization

Turning Point USA, a nonprofit aimed at promoting conservative values on high school and college campuses, was co-founded by Charlie Kirk and his late mentor Bill Montgomery in 2012. The upcoming Berkeley event will mark the organization’s first appearance at a California college since Kirk was fatally shot in September.

Impact of Kirk's Death

Kirk’s assassination has heightened concerns about political violence and sparked renewed discussions about the balance between campus security and free speech.

Local Chapter and Event Preparation

John Paul Leon, a junior and president of Berkeley’s Turning Point USA chapter, established in 2019, has been actively preparing for Kirk’s planned visit for months prior to his death.

“(We’ve) been wanting Charlie for a long time,” Leon said. “I’ve been planning this since… June… It’s been a lot of work, but it’s definitely worth it.”

Leon’s role illustrates the personal nature of the event for the campus community amidst the challenges of political tensions today.

Summary

UC Berkeley is set to host Turning Point USA amid heightened security concerns following the tragic loss of its founder, reflecting ongoing challenges in balancing free speech and safety on college campuses.

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CalMatters CalMatters — 2025-11-03

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