“I think free speech is the bedrock of democracy, and I think it’s very important that people are able to express their ideas freely.”
Gabe Christianson
On Sept. 10, 2025, Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk was shot and killed at Utah Valley University while debating students. Following the shooting, thousands of new chapters sprung up across the country, including one at Kirkwood Community College.
“I was just tired of being quiet, and I felt the urge to do something,” said Lily Jausel-Wallace, the president of the chapter, studying business administration.
The chapter has already faced some obstacles, as Jausel-Wallace said it was hard to get initial support to start it. At first, the club was not officially recognized and couldn’t meet on campus because it didn’t have a faculty adviser. But the group recently gained recognition from Kirkwood after communications instructor Gabe Christianson volunteered to fill the role.
“I think free speech is the bedrock of democracy, and I think it’s very important that people are able to express their ideas freely,” Christianson said when asked why he wanted to get involved.
The group currently has about 30 members and aims to reach 50 by the end of the school year. It also recently held its first tabling event in Cedar Hall, where Jausel-Wallace, Christianson and Kirkwood student Jaydn Wieser asked students, “What does America mean to you?”
The chapter plans to hold more events like this and eventually host open-mic debates.
“We’re going to start meeting biweekly next semester,” Christianson said. “We’re going to start planning some events, and if you just show up, we will get you connected.”
The group is open to any student, but students should be aware that it promotes more conservative values. Christianson said students who value free speech may feel especially drawn to the group.
TPUSA also encourages patriotism and open debate instead of arguments and violence. Students can get involved by scanning the QR codes on fliers around campus, reaching out to members or joining through the link in the @kirkwood_tpusa Instagram bio.
One concern among group members is that they may not be received positively or may face criticism on campus.
Jausel-Wallace said she feels the pressure of holding an unpopular opinion, and Christianson said he has to be OK with some judgment.
Overall, members are optimistic they can make a positive impact on campus and encourage more free speech and conversation instead of the violence that has been on the rise recently.
“Stay true to who you are, and never be scared to voice your opinions,” Jausel-Wallace said.
Christianson added, “I’m happy to have some students around who are standing up for their beliefs.”
Categories: Club Corner, Feature
