Copyright WDIV ClickOnDetroit
ROYAL OAK, Mich. – The formation of a Turning Point USA chapter at Royal Oak High School has sparked heated debate and protests, with some students alleging harassment while others defend their right to organize. More than 270 students walked out of class in late October after the conservative organization announced its presence on campus through social media. The demonstration led to a meeting between students and the district superintendent in the school cafeteria. “Turning Point is a nationwide chapter that spreads conservative views and the same views that Charlie Kirk promoted. And those aren’t the things that we promote in our school,” said Leilani Hamilton, a 17-year-old senior who organized the walkout. The tensions have moved beyond peaceful protest, according to some students. Braxtyn Romano, a junior who expressed interest in joining the club, reported experiencing harassment. “I got harassed, posted about, and I would get shoulder bumped during class. And from then it’s just been a lot of hatred,” Romano said. School administrators say they are monitoring the situation. “Neither our students nor staff have reported any incidents to the administration of violence or physical harassment of any sort. We will continue to monitor this situation and remain committed to maintaining a safe, inclusive, and productive learning environment for every student.” Statement from Royal Oak Schools The Royal Oak Police Department confirmed they haven’t received any formal reports but are keeping the issue “on their radar.” Hamilton, who led the protest, has denounced any harassment of TPUSA members. “That is just promoting the hate that we do not want in our community and making it happen. It is not going to help us get this conversation going if we then put fear in other people’s minds,” Hamilton said. Romano said she joined the club to learn more about different political ideologies, having previously researched Democratic Party positions. Despite the controversy, she remains committed to the organization. “You’ve got to be careful with what you say, of course, but never back down, keep fighting,” Romano said. The chapter’s first meeting is scheduled for Nov. 10. Students opposing the chapter plan to attend the next school board meeting on Nov. 13 at DeVille and Churchill to voice their concerns about the organization’s presence on campus.
