An Arizona State University instructor who identifies as queer was followed and physically assaulted by two members of the right-wing group Turning Point USA. The incident, which occurred on campus, is being investigated by police as a potential case of aggravated assault with bias towards LGBTQ individuals. The incident was captured on surveillance video.
The confrontation unfolded when two Turning Point USA associates followed Boyles on campus, bombarding him with invasive questions, while the other filmed the disturbing encounter. The situation escalated into a physical confrontation, with conflicting accounts of who initiated the violence.
Surveillance footage released by Arizona State University contradicts Turning Point USA’s claim that Boyles attacked their cameraman. Instead, the video shows the Turning Point interviewer forcefully pushing Boyles face-first onto the concrete.
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Boyles later shared a photo of himself with blood on his face, recounting that the attackers shouted derogatory remarks, including false accusations of pedophilia and anti-American sentiments.
The incident raises concerns about the tactics employed by the right-wing group, which has faced criticism for its Professor Watchlist allegedly suppressing free speech on campuses.
Boyles, a writing instructor at the university, has been targeted by Turning Point’s Professor Watchlist for his advocacy of a program in which drag queens read to children.
In response to the incident, Arizona State University condemned harassment or threatening behavior towards its employees. Turning Point USA, originally a campus-focused conservative organization, has gained national prominence, with its founder, Charlie Kirk, being a notable figure on the right.
Boyles, who sustained minor injuries, expressed frustration and dismay at the normalization of such harassment and violence. As the investigation unfolds, police are working to identify the individuals involved in the alleged attack.
