The date is etched in memory: September 10th, 2025. The brutal murder of Charlie Kirk sent shockwaves through Turning Point USA, unleashing a torrent of hostility directed at its members.
But amidst the escalating harassment, one student refused to yield. Amy Rose Lombardo, event coordinator for the Northern Arizona University chapter of TPUSA, has become a symbol of unwavering resolve.
The attacks haven’t been subtle. Lombardo recounts a chilling encounter where a woman deliberately left a graphic drawing at their table – a depiction of Kirk’s murder, labeling him with hateful rhetoric and illustrating a gruesome scene of violence.
Another incident, captured on camera, showed a student aggressively sweeping the contents of their display table onto the ground, stealing a sign featuring Ronald Reagan. The act was a blatant display of disrespect and intimidation.
Campus police were contacted, and the individual was charged with disorderly conduct and theft, both misdemeanor offenses. Yet, the charges barely scratch the surface of the emotional toll these events take.
Despite the fear and animosity, Lombardo remains steadfast in her commitment to TPUSA’s mission. For her, the organization represents a pursuit of truth and a courageous defense of deeply held beliefs.
“If we lose all hope, and we just give up on everything, then there’s no way that we’d be able to have a future in America,” she stated, her voice resonating with conviction.
Remarkably, Lombardo doesn’t respond to the aggression with anger, but with compassion. She views her adversaries as misguided, choosing to pray for them rather than harbor resentment.
Similar acts of aggression have been reported at other universities, including Illinois State and the University of Iowa, where TPUSA tables were deliberately overturned by individuals with opposing viewpoints.
These incidents paint a disturbing picture of a climate where open dialogue is stifled by intimidation and violence. Yet, Lombardo’s story is a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of those who refuse to be silenced.
Her determination serves as a beacon, reminding others that standing up for one’s beliefs, even in the face of adversity, is a vital act of courage and a necessary defense of fundamental freedoms.
