Charlie Kirk, a conservative spokesperson, influencer, debater, and internet personality, known for his debates and social media activity, came to SF State on Tuesday, May 6th. A conservative spokesperson coming to a liberal San Francisco seemed out of the blue (pun intended). I had to take the chance to go to the event, hosted by Turning Point USA (Charlie Kirk’s organization). Riley Gains, a female swimmer who was forced to swim against trans athletes and change in the same locker rooms as trans athletes was also present at the event, sitting beside Kirk.
While walking to the venue, I saw many bright red MAGA hats in sight, and there were also a lot of loud, angry protesters trying to disrupt the event. After getting through security and walking to the main crowd, where hundreds of supporters rallied and hundreds of opponents booked, I got the wonderful opportunity to go backstage. The event was about two and a half hours long, and there were many speakers, both SF State students and general public speakers. Charlie Kirk’s tour’s slogan “prove me wrong,” had many opponents try to debate him. However, seeing as Kirk is a professional, many couldn’t indeed “prove him wrong.” Many resorted to personal insults which were met by waves of boos from the crowd. However, Kirk met the insults with poise and professionalism.
Most debates were about abortion rights, Israel’s conflict with Palestine, trans athletes in women’s sports, and Trump’s presidency. Most of the debates were very interesting and civil, where both parties showed respect. However, what stole the show was when a heckler, a middle-aged woman, shoves herself up the mic and goes on a four-minute ramble about Charlie Kirk throwing unique, never-heard-before insults. I wish I could quote them but a lot of profanity was used. I bet you will be able to see it on TikTok or other social media soon.
The best debate was probably between Charlie Kirk and an SF State student born and raised in the West Bank. The debate was on Israel and Palestine, and both parties brought great points from each side. Some common ground was found towards the end, however, it seemed to be more of an “agree to disagree” situation. The debate lasted for at least ten minutes, making it the longest debate of the day, but it was interesting and engaging, clearly a personal topic for the student, and a well-researched topic for Charlie Kirk.
Many opponents of Charlie Kirk ask why he doesn’t go to Stanford or UC Berkeley, two of the best colleges in the state, and believe he doesn’t want to go there. In reality, he chose to visit SF State on this year’s tour because of what happened to Riley Gains on this campus last year. Gains were threatened by protestors and were forced to hide in a barricaded building with security and police for hours. SF State sent no apology nor did they give out disciplinary action to their students. Kirk wanted to take the opportunity to come back with Riley a year later.
After the event, I had the opportunity to talk to Charlie Kirk on one. He pointed out that having safe spaces and open mics where anyone can talk and share their opinion is extremely important for America, especially today where it is as polarized as it has ever been. As leader of the Veteran’s Appreciation Club here at Stuart Hall, I had to ask him what he thought of veterans and what they mean to America. In response, he said: “Veterans are extremely underappreciated in America today. They risk their lives to fight for our freedoms, and we as a country don’t realize that enough. I have so much respect for them, and I try to do everything I can to support veterans. I greatly appreciate you organizing and leading this wonderful club.” I was truly honored to hear his words and was grateful for his praise. Charlie Kirk remains a top conservative spokesperson and showed class and professionalism through the highs and lows of the event. I urge those who disagree with his political beliefs to debate him or do your research instead of throwing out personal insults.