Protests Planned Against Upcoming TPUSA Event at UC Berkeley

A group organizing a protest against the Turning Point USA (TPUSA) event at the University of California, Berkeley, seemingly used the same song associated with Charlie Kirk’s assassination suspect in their promotional efforts. The song “Bella Ciao” features in an Instagram post by the ‘Students organizing liberation at UC Berkeley,’ where it plays alongside a message supporting various marginalized communities.

Authorities highlight that one of the individuals linked to Kirk’s assassination reportedly carved “Bella Ciao” into a shell casing, while another individual shouted a derogatory comment at the scene. The suspect, Tyler Robinson, is a 22-year-old currently in custody.

It’s important to note there’s no clear evidence suggesting that the protest group deliberately referenced the shooting in their song choice. Fox News Digital has reached out for further statements from the organizing group.

The protest, scheduled for Monday evening outside Zellerbach Hall, is urging participants to bring “noisemakers” and indicate that “messages of hate and intimidation are not welcome.” This event marks two months since Kirk was killed while speaking at an event in Utah.

In light of Kirk’s absence, comedian Rob Schneider and author Frank Turek will take the stage as speakers at the upcoming TPUSA event.

John Paul Leon, the president of the TPUSA chapter at Berkeley, mentioned to Fox News Digital that “Bella Ciao” is recognized as a liberation anthem, particularly among anti-fascist movements. Leon expressed concern about the protest group’s history of violent actions in the past, noting that several students alerted him to these ongoing issues.

A flyer promoting the protest featured an image of Kirk and former President Donald Trump, mocking Kirk’s contributions with captions suggesting his forgettability. The content described TPUSA as a “non-profit, fascist university speaking and touring group,” accusing it of radicalizing students toward extreme political views after Kirk’s assassination.

Criticism was also directed at Schneider, labeling him as a “failed comedian” with controversial opinions on women and minorities. The protest material included disparaging remarks about Turek, accusing him of promoting harmful ideologies.

Dan Moguloff, an assistant vice chancellor at UC Berkeley, confirmed the administration’s awareness of the protests but clarified that the protesting groups lack formal ties to the university. He emphasized that students have the right to invite any speakers they choose and that the university will collaborate with law enforcement to ensure a safe environment for all events.

Moguloff elaborated that the protest is spearheaded by ‘Students for Liberation,’ which is not officially recognized by the university. Some other groups mentioned in the flyer are recognized and must adhere to the Student Code of Conduct.

A TPUSA spokesperson remarked that using “Bella Ciao” sends a clear, threatening message to conservatives on campus, especially in the wake of Kirk’s murder, asserting that they are working closely with law enforcement to ensure safety.

Fox News Digital has also attempted to reach out to both Schneider and Turek for their perspectives.