Protest Against Conservative Summit in Lincolnshire

Protesters assembled on Tuesday evening at a busy intersection in Lincolnshire. Their goal was to oppose a conservative Christian educators’ summit hosted by Turning Point USA at a nearby hotel. Two local chapters of Indivisible, a progressive activist organization, orchestrated the demonstration. They aimed to challenge the perceived introduction of ‘white Christian nationalism’ into the educational system.

The protest, organized by Indivisible Western Lake County and Indivisible Northeast Lake County, drew 60 to 70 participants. Katie Sayler, a member of Indivisible NE Lake County, explained the group’s intentions. They sought to counter authoritarianism and protect community members. Sayler noted their purpose was to convey the community’s disapproval of the summit. ‘We want to speak out to let them know they’re not welcome here,’ she stated.

Sayler also emphasized that Indivisible NE Lake County adopts a nonpartisan approach. She stressed that their issue is with extremist ideologies rather than partisan lines. ‘We take issue with extremist voters. White Christian nationalism—that more extreme MAGA perspective—that’s where our concerns lie,’ Sayler mentioned. She expressed concern over the messaging of Turning Point USA.

This was the second time Turning Point Education, a branch of TPUSA, held its annual summit in Lake County. Their 2023 event took place in Deerfield. TPUSA did not respond to requests for comment as of Wednesday.

‘They’re intent upon infiltrating our educational system, that pillar of power,’ Sayler commented. ‘Their messaging is about reducing our constitutional rights, women’s right to vote, or just really reducing our education and stripping it away from our more diverse history.’

Turning Point Education’s website makes their Christian and conservative goals clear. Two of their five pillars focus on these aspects. The site highlights their commitment to reclaiming children’s education, reviving virtuous education, and restoring God as a foundational aspect of education.

The summit hosted nearly 30 speakers, including TPUSA CEO Erika Kirk. Other speakers featured included the founder of the ACE scholarship program and various politicians, Christian authors, and educators promoting a Biblical worldview in classrooms.

During the protest, participants chanted, displayed signs, and played drums. Some slogans targeted both former President Donald Trump and TPUSA. Protesters included Grayslake resident Julia Plescia, who held a ‘Resist’ sign. Plescia engaged in activism due to her concerns about current political dynamics. As a former school nurse and board member, she voiced concerns about religious indoctrination in schools. ‘I don’t want religious indoctrination in our schools,’ she declared.

Some cars and trucks passing by honked in support, while others showed disapproval. Over the years, Lake County has seen a rise in Democratic voters, flipping the county’s political landscape. Recent school board meetings over national controversies showed more support for progressive causes.

However, some feel TPUSA is trying to establish a presence in Lake County. Joe Salvi, a Republican candidate, spoke about building a new Republican generation. He heads the Lake County Young Republicans and has been involved in creating local ‘Club America’ chapters, aligning with Turning Point’s efforts. ‘Club America’ currently lists chapters in four Lake County schools.

Both political parties have experienced leadership changes recently. State Rep. Daniel Didech, D-Buffalo Grove, and Dawn Abernathy of Mundelein are now leading their respective parties in the county.