On April 8, protestors and attendees alike lined up outside of Foellinger Auditorium to attend Charlie Kirk’s The American Comeback Tour.
The American Comeback Tour was sponsored by Turning Point USA (TPUSA).
TPUSA is a conservative interest group cofounded by Kirk that advocates restoring “traditional American values like patriotism, respect for life, liberty, family, and fiscal responsibility” on college campuses across the nation, according to TPUSA’s website.
Kirk rose to popularity as a commentator and debater, posting his events across the internet and on TPUSA social media. The American Comeback Tour featured conservative comedy and debates between Kirk and audience members.
A speech by Jobob Taeleifi, host of the Turning Point Tonight commentary show, preceded Kirk’s portion of the night.
”I think the role of a woman in society is to be a mother… I think men’s role in society is to be a father,” Taeleifi said. “Our job and our goal as conservatives is to make society a worthwhile place of living. And flourishing societies are brought about by flourishing families which are brought about by two parents who are doing what God intended to do, in being a mother and a father.”
After Taeleifi, Kirk continued with the rest of the event. Kirk started with a speech detailing the political events of the past months, including the presidential election, the executive order banning trans athletes from participating in some collegiate-level sports, abortion, his views on the effects of COVID-19 on the younger generations, and immigration.
He put special emphasis on familial roles. Kirk discussed a change in the “cycle of moving to a metropolitan city,” hoping it will diverge into a more traditional role of women seeking satisfaction in a family.
“The happiest women in America are not the CEOs, not the middle level managers, not the HR executives — the happiest women in America are married with kids. By far,” Kirk said.
Kirk then began with his Q&A portion of his events, where attendees brought forth questions about his views and opinions on political matters.
Attendees came with questions regarding the legality and morality of abortion, immigration laws, veganism, and diversity in American workplaces.
Elena, a student at Parkland College who asked to be identified by only her first name, said it was important for Charlie Kirk to come to the University of Illinois.
“[Kirk] said before, when you stop talking to people who disagree with you, that’s when [the] problem starts. I thought that was really important,” Elena said.
”I think if you disagree, that’s fine. Everyone can disagree, they have their own opinions. But definitely just look and don’t just be focused on your one opinion… I like to look at different opinions,” she said. “People need to know that people disagree with them.”
Before the event started, protestors gathered outside of Foellinger to protest Kirk’s visit to campus.
As a part of the American Comeback Tour, Kirk visited Illinois State University earlier on April 8.
Kirk will be visiting Boise State University, Washington State University, Texas A&M University, and the University of Wyoming to complete the tour.
