Marginalized persons are all around us - living among us wherever we are - even in small towns and rural areas. Members of your family, one of your friends, your neighbors, or even yourself or your children could be part of a marginalized community whether you realize it or not. They have faced consistent struggles throughout history and continue to experience disproportionate amounts of discrimination and violence just for being who they are - which has recently been back on the rise. We should be supporting all members of our communities, and not open doors to further the oppression that they experience.

Turning Point USA is an influential far-right political organization co-founded by Charlie Kirk, a public figure known for his controversial views on marginalized communities. Under the guise of “debating”, he would push harmful rhetoric to further the MAGA agenda and was a personal friend of Donald Trump. Since his death Turning Point has been attempting to widen their scope -  right now, there are efforts to set up chapters of Turning Point USA in small towns all over the country, even in blue states. 

One of these towns is Corinth, NY - a small town nestled at the base of the Adirondack Mountains, between Saratoga and Glens Falls. It’s a charming and scenic town and, in recent years, has seen an increase in the diversity within the community. There is a strong sense of pride among the residents, but like every town, it faces its own share of problems. Despite being 20 minutes from two prominent cities a lack of public transportation and limited resources makes it difficult for people to get out much - particularly the youth, and those who are elderly or disabled. 

Turning Point wants to open a chapter within the town under the pretense of Christianity and community outreach - but the truth is that this will create a springboard for the already-troubled youth to become indoctrinated into their divisive and malicious practices. It also opens the door for them to expand into the nearby area, which would broaden their destructive impact. Members of the communities they directly dehumanize are also members of the community within Corinth, and they deserve the same opportunities and treatment as everyone else, and you cannot truly support your town if you are willing to oppress your neighbors. While the town would benefit from workshops and programs geared towards building healthy habits and teaching new skills, there are a variety of organizations that can do so without pushing harmful sentiments onto our own children and fellow residents.

Please help keep this dangerous organization out of the area, and away from vulnerable members of the communities, and make room for non-partisan community outreach programs to fill the gap and allow ALL members of the community to thrive. Please help make Corinth and the surrounding areas a thriving and more welcoming environment for all!