Feria del Barrio 2025. (Foto: Crédito/Virginia Esteban–Somalo)
Hispanic immigrants celebrating their heritage in the coming weeks live the contradiction of being honored in speeches while persecuted. Their contributions to the economy, culture, and social fabric are praised—even as their communities, often composed of mixed-status families, live under the constant fear of persecution and deportation. The inconsistency is glaring, and it is cruel irony to be celebrated and racially profiled at the same time.
The Supreme Court’s green light for anti-immigrant raids has sparked outrage and fear—not only in California. What some defenders frame as simple enforcement of immigration law is, in practice, something far harsher: the legitimization of racial profiling, reeking of malicious intent from those in power who seem to aspire to ethnic cleansing. Under this credible threat, entire families—including U.S. citizens among them—are considering leaving.
Immigrants across the U.S. know what a traffic stop can mean, what speaking Spanish in public can trigger, and the fear of hearing a knock at the door. Stepping outside has become an act of courage for those with irregular immigration status, where in this new reality, suspicion can be sparked by nothing more than your location, accent, appearance, or last name.
In Chicago, anxiety is rising amid the looming specter of militarization. Rumors and reports of federal force deployments have awakened memories of past crackdowns, when public safety became synonymous with armored vehicles and heavily armed agents. Residents are asking what kind of city is being built when the balance between security and freedom clearly tilts toward intimidation.
Amid these storms, another silent and painful cry emerges—from deported mothers and fathers separated from their children, and from parents in their home countries still waiting for answers about the whereabouts of their children who entered U.S. custody and were lost in the deportation process.
The weight of these policies also falls on those seeking refuge or holding temporary status. For TPS recipients—many of whom have lived in the U.S. for decades—uncertainty looms over the fragile shield that once allowed them to live and work legally. The program didn’t offer citizenship, but it did provide a stable truce, a safe haven from the dangers of their countries of origin.
Ending it now means forcing them to choose between facing the threats they fled or living in the shadows under persecution. In both cases, the human cost is immeasurable, and the consequences—from economic disruption to social deterioration—are difficult to predict. Deep wounds are being inflicted, and self-inflicted, across society, where everyone will be affected in one way or another.
These blind enforcement policies have sparked responses in Washington and across the country—marches filled with chants, banners, and a collective demand for dignity, seeking to reclaim the essence of this immigrant nation.
It’s not just protests. Citizens of various ethnicities have organized to defend neighbors from arbitrary detentions, even forcing immigration agents to retreat when lacking judicial warrants—and sometimes with slashed tires.
This is one of the responses to the increasingly aggressive “memetic” campaigns from the White House’s own social media accounts, which seem to revel in the virtual escalation of hostility—a cause and effect of the violence that plagues this country.
The recent death of Charlie Kirk is evidence of the dangers of radical polarization fueling political violence. No cause, however, it may seem, can be legitimized through bloodshed. A basic consensus is needed: that differences must be resolved at the ballot box and in public forums—never with weapons or threats. Condemning violence, no matter its source, is essential to preserving democracy and refusing to play into the hands of bullies.
At its best, the United States offered a promise: that those who worked hard would have a better future. Now, it is a country drifting away from its own ideals—of liberty and welcome, of the generosity that once defined its essence. Not the essence of governments seeking domination, but of a society with multiple identities, unafraid of diversity and celebrating it through initiatives like Hispanic Heritage Month.
In these unprecedented times for most who live in this corner of the world, bold and creative action is needed. We must not miss the opportunity to celebrate this month with the courage that defines us as a community.
According to a report by the Economy League, Philadelphia has made significant progress in reducing poverty in recent years. However, structural challenges and racial disparities continue to shape the city’s economic landscape.
Notable improvement, yet still behind
Philadelphia’s overall poverty rate dropped from 26.7% in 2010 to 20.3% in 2023—a meaningful decline, though still higher than Chicago (16.8%) and Pittsburgh (19.9%). While this reflects a positive national trend, poverty remains a deep-rooted issue in the city.
Persistent racial gaps
Despite overall progress, racial disparities in poverty rates remain:
Black community: Poverty rates steadily declined from 33.6% in 2010 to 26.4% in 2023, reflecting sustained investments and inclusive economic initiatives.
White community: Poverty dropped significantly from 14.2% to 9.4%, indicating broad economic strengthening.
Latino community: Poverty saw a substantial decrease from 26.2% to 18.2%, though the specific causes of this improvement remain unclear.
While the decline in poverty is often seen as a sign of progress, a more complex and unequal reality lies beneath the surface.
Urban poverty concentration
Philadelphia still has the highest poverty rate among the ten largest U.S. cities, with disproportionate concentration in racialized communities. Lower housing costs and reliable public transit attract low-income residents, while restrictive suburban zoning limits affordable housing development. This results in spatial concentration of poverty within city limits, where opportunities are often out of reach for those who need them most.
Racial and economic segregation
The average Black resident lives in a neighborhood with nearly three times the poverty rate of the average White resident. These divisions stem from a legacy of residential segregation, unequal access to education, and persistent labor market discrimination. Black and Latino households continue to earn significantly less than White households and face more unstable housing, under-resourced schools, and fewer job opportunities.
Gentrification and displacement
Some poverty reduction is linked to gentrification. Neighborhoods like Fishtown and Point Breeze have seen sharp increases in income and housing values, often accompanied by demographic shifts from Black to White residents. While newcomers have improved the economic profile of these areas, long-term residents—especially those without financial stability—are more likely to be displaced to lower-income neighborhoods. Research shows this displacement is racially unequal: Black families often move to similarly disadvantaged areas, while White residents access better-resourced neighborhoods.
Labor market shifts and precarity
Philadelphia’s shift from a manufacturing hub to a service-based economy has left many workers in unstable, low-wage jobs with few benefits. The rise of the informal economy has worsened this precarity, disproportionately affecting workers of color and those without higher education. Despite recent job growth and wage improvements, many Philadelphians remain trapped in poverty due to structural labor market shortcomings.
Limited Upward Mobility
Economic mobility remains a major concern. Research by Raj Chetty shows Philadelphia ranks among the worst major U.S. cities in helping children born into poverty climb the income ladder. Only 16% of children born poor in the city escape poverty by age 20. The city ranks last in upward mobility for low-income White families and poorly for Black families regardless of income.
(Foto: Impacto/Staff)
Policy response and gaps
Philadelphia has made substantial investments in affordable housing, rental subsidies, and prevention of eviction. Yet these efforts alone are not enough to overcome entrenched disparities. Without addressing root causes—such as residential segregation, educational inequality, and racialized labor market barriers—progress will remain fragile and uneven.
Conclusion
Philadelphia’s poverty reduction is real but driven as much by who leaves and who moves in as by actual improvements for long-term residents. Racial and spatial inequalities remain deep, and upward mobility is still out of reach for too many.
To build a truly inclusive economy, the city must invest not only in reducing poverty but also in expanding mobility—especially for communities historically excluded from Philadelphia’s growth. This means confronting the structural barriers that shape where people live, how they work, and what futures are possible.
Martín Alfaro durante su intervención en el evento Global Philadelphia Association, resaltando el papel de los hispanos en la ciudad: (Foto: Suministrada)
Martin Alfaro, founder and CEO of Alfaro Media Consulting, shared his own story of arriving in Philadelphia without knowing a single person, only to find a city that embraced him — as long as he was willing to show up and contribute. “Philadelphia has given me so much — not just in my career, but personally as well,” he said, referencing his fiancé Kyle and the community that became his home.
“I was humbled to be asked to serve as a Young Professional Co-Chair because it reflects not just my journey, but the potential of the Latino community in Philadelphia. Too often, opportunities and mentorship come from outside our community rather than within it. That’s why I’m committed to bringing people along wherever I go. I never show up alone. We must open doors for others the same way doors have been opened for us. My hope is that by stepping into roles like this, I can honor those who extended a hand to me, while helping to create more opportunities for the next generation of Latino and other young professional leaders.” — Martín Alfaro
Looking ahead: A global stage awaits
With major events on the horizon — the 250th anniversary of the United States, the FIFA World Cup, the MLB All-Star Game, and the reigning Super Bowl champion Eagles — Alfaro emphasized that Philadelphia is not just preserving history, but actively shaping the future of culture, sports, and innovation.
Empowering the next generation
Alfaro praised the Global Philadelphia Association for creating platforms that give young professionals a real voice. “To build the next 250 years, we must uplift the next generation,” he said, reinforcing the idea that being a World Heritage City is as much about future impact as it is about historical recognition.
A call to keep telling our stories
In closing, Alfaro urged everyone — whether young or “slightly seasoned” — to continue sharing stories that reflect Philadelphia’s diversity, resilience, and shared pride. “Philadelphia’s best chapters are still ahead,” he declared, leaving the audience inspired to be part of the city’s unfolding legacy.
Nilda Ruiz, president of the National Puerto Rican Agenda and the Association of Puerto Ricans in March. (Photo: Haydeé Rosario/Impacto staff)
Puerto Rico’s fiscal crisis remains unresolved as tensions grow between federal control, local needs, and the role of the diaspora since the creation of the Fiscal Oversight Board (JSF) in 2016.
The JSF is a federal entity responsible for controlling Puerto Rico’s finances and managing its public debt. While it aims for economic stability, it has imposed severe cuts affecting essential services like health, education, and pensions. These cuts have led to increased migration to the U.S. mainland, impacting Puerto Rican communities in cities like Philadelphia. This accelerated migration creates challenges in housing, employment, education, and access to services within the diaspora.
In an interview with Nilda Ruiz, president of the National Puerto Rican Agenda (NPRA) and Asociación Puertorriqueños en Marcha (APM), she discusses the challenges facing Puerto Rico and the vital role community organizations play in defending Puerto Ricans both on and off the island.
Recent changes and controversies In August 2025, the U.S. president Donald Trump removed most members of the Board, creating uncertainty about its future. However, a positive development is that the debt of the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority (PREPA), which previously accounted for 50 cents per dollar in the electric bill, now represents only 7 cents, freeing resources to improve quality of life.
But the key question remains: Who oversees the Board? Its executive director, Robert Mujica Jr., a Puerto Rican from the diaspora, has stated that no more payments should be demanded from bondholders. Others, like Nilda Ruiz, believe that “the Board shouldn’t exist” due to its lack of transparency and the fact that it is not an elected body.
Everyday Life: Between apathy and exhaustion For many in Puerto Rico, the fiscal crisis has become a resigned routine, reflected in phrases like “That’s just life.” Although young people have mobilized in protests, “there is a hidden level in Puerto Rico; no one really knows what is going on,” she warns.
The Diaspora: Citizenship without representation In the U.S., the Puerto Rican diaspora lives a complex reality. On one hand, they have access to information and can contact legislators; on the other, they bear the burden of financially supporting family members on the island. “Congress has power over Puerto Rico. That’s why it’s vital that our people organize, get informed, and knock on the right doors,” Ruiz says.
Nilda and other leaders agree that the solution lies in empowering citizens with concrete actions:
-Get informed through the official website of the Fiscal Oversight Board.
-Educate Puerto Ricans on the island and in the diaspora about the fiscal process and its effects.
-Organize and pressure federal legislators to act with justice and respect.
Conclusion: between oversight and hope Puerto Rico stands at a crossroads. The diaspora is key, not only as resistance but as a driver of change.
Robert Bernberg, co-founder and steward of “Siempre Salsa Philly.” (Photo: Leticia Roa Nixon)
Councilwoman Quetcy Lozada, who represents the city’s 7th District, introduced a resolution on June 5 that was adopted by City Council to rename North 5th Street, between Huntingdon and Somerset Streets, as “Jesse Malpica Bermudez Way”. The renaming honors the life and legacy of this tireless and visionary cultural leader who spent over four decades empowering Philadelphia’s musicians.
During the Feria del Barrio on September 7, Councilwoman Lozada took the stage at the corner of Lehigh Avenue and North 5th Street, joined by Jesse’s family and Rev. Bonnie Camarda, to announce the unveiling of the street name to the delight of musicians and attendees. Jesse had deep cultural roots, which he expressed through his mission to elevate Latin music and empower the community.
In the 1970s and 1980s, he produced major concerts, including his iconic “Salsa con Salsa” series featuring legendary artists such as Celia Cruz, Willie Colón, and Héctor Lavoe. In 1982, he co-founded the Association of Latin American Musicians (AMLA) to advocate for better working conditions and fair compensation for its members. In 2006, he partnered with Rev. Luis Cortés to bring AMLA to Esperanza in North Philadelphia. He also founded the Latin School for the Performing Arts, providing education, mentorship, and career opportunities for young students.
In recognition of his cultural contributions, a resolution introduced by then-Councilwoman María Quiñones-Sánchez in 2015 established “Jesse Bermudez Day” on July 8.
The legendary musician also co-founded the renowned “Siempre Salsa Philly” series in 2015 with Carlos Sánchez and Rob Bernberg.
An educator, musician, mentor, friend, collaborator, and family man, Jesse was remembered with great emotion by his youngest daughter Sara Bermudez Evans, his family, Rob Bernberg, Councilwoman Quetcy Lozada, Marangeli Mejía Rabell, Erikka Goslin, Rev. Bonnie Camarda, and others before the unveiling of the street in his name.
Jesse passed away in September 2022, but his legacy will live on for generations.
The three justices shared in a very friendly manner and asked the public for their vote. (Photo: Haydeé Rosario/Impacto staff)
This November, Pennsylvania voters will have the opportunity to decide whether three current justices on the state’s Supreme Court will remain in their positions for another ten years. These are known as retention elections nonpartisan processes in which voters simply cast a “yes” or “no” vote to keep a judge in office.
The justices Christine Donohue, Kevin Dougherty, and David Wecht, all originally elected as Democrats in 2015, will appear on the ballot this fall.
Justice Christine Donohue wants to ensure that efforts to interpret the Constitution continue. (Photo: Courtesy of Donohue2025.com)
All three participated in a public event in Philadelphia on Monday, September 8, titled “Fireside Chat: Behind the Ballot,” organized by the League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania, Pennsylvanians for Modern Courts, and the Committee of Seventy.
Justice Kevin M. Dougherty (Courtesy of PA Courts u/social media)
During the event, held at Central High School, the justices spoke about the Court’s role, how decisions are made, and the importance of maintaining judicial independence.
Justice David Wecht wants to continue promoting modern procedures. (Photo: Courtesy of PA Courts us/social media)
Impacto shares with the community some key highlights from this unique public discussion.
Key Takeaways from the Forum:
Judicial independence.One justice emphasized that personal, political, or religious views do not influence legal decisions: “Our viewpoints are set aside.”
Another reminded the audience that although they were elected under a party label, “Once we put on the black robe, we leave that partisan title behind.”
A third justice noted, “We have a wonderful relationship among the justices. I believe the people of Pennsylvania should feel proud, or at least satisfied, that the Supreme Court is now focused on the work, not internal disputes.”
The justices explained that the Court reviews only a small portion of the cases it receives and decides internally which ones to accept. After oral arguments, they hold an administrative session for a preliminary vote. The real debate takes place in their written opinions, where majority and dissenting views clearly reflect each judge’s stance.
Justice David Wecht wants to continue promoting transparent processes. (Photo: Haydeé Rosario/Impacto staff)
Why should they be retained?
Each judge gave reasons for continuing in office. One justice said that another ten years on the Court would help maintain consistency in interpreting the state Constitution: “I want to ensure that the efforts to interpret and apply it continue.”
Another pointed out that the Court also manages the state judicial system and that their retention would allow them to “continue promoting the most modern and transparent procedures” in judicial rulemaking and best practices.
The three justices shared in a very friendly manner and asked the public for their vote. (Photo: Haydeé Rosario/Impacto staff)
The third justice described the November vote as a chance for citizens to assess whether the judges have upheld their constitutional oath to apply the law fairly and equally: “I believe all three of us have done so.”
In summary, the event offered a rare public opportunity for the justices to explain their work, defend their impartiality, and respond to an active political campaign challenging their continued service.
This content is a part of Every Voice, Every Vote, a collaborative project managed by The Lenfest Institute for Journalism. Lead support for Every Voice, Every Vote in 2024 and 2025 is provided by the William Penn Foundation with additional funding from The Lenfest Institute for Journalism, Comcast NBC Universal, The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, Henry L. Kimelman Family Foundation, Judy and Peter Leone, Arctos Foundation, Wyncote Foundation, 25th Century Foundation, and Dolfinger-McMahon Foundation. To learn more about the project and view a full list of supporters, visit www.everyvoice-everyvote.org. Editorial content is created independently of the project’s donors.
Feria del Barrio 2025. (Foto: Crédito/Virginia Esteban–Somalo)
“We’re shutting down 5th Street to celebrate the roots and future of our Latinx culture.”
With this message, artist Selina Carrera invited her followers on social media to join the Feria del Barrio at El Taller Puertorriqueño on September 7. For her, performing with her band at the fair was deeply meaningful and bringing the energy of her live show to the neighborhood that raised her, surrounded by people she considers family. And she wasn’t alone.
Sharing the stage with her group Cvgebird were Foto Rodríguez, Tino Serrano & The Latin Jazz Orchestra, Bachata Tropical, Los Pueblitos, Emmanuel Méndez, and La Guagua 47.
It was the debut of La Guagua 47 Orchestra, directed by Moroquito Ávila, that brought the event to its emotional peak. On stage, Alba Martínez—the visionary behind the project—joined the orchestra to perform several songs from the musical, including two brand-new pieces presented live for the first time.
Martínez shared with the audience how La Guagua 47 began as a salsa song, evolved into a community film, and now has become a full musical featuring 20 original songs and dialogue.
Attendees got a taste of Lucía’s story—a Puerto Rican girl who arrives in Philadelphia and embarks on a transformative journey along the route of bus 47.
The performance was part of La Guagua Creativa, an artist residency at El Taller Puertorriqueño that aims to bring musical theater closer to the community through salsa, collective art, and active participation.
El Centro de Oro—Philadelphia’s hub of Latin culture—turned the street into a celebration of arts, education, and community resources. The neighborhood came alive with a spirit of family, unity, and camaraderie, all pulsing to the rhythm of Latin music.
This space allows the community to interact and contribute their ideas. (Photo: Courtesy of La Guagua 47)
In Philadelphia’s vibrant Latino community, Alba Martínez stands out for her rich and diverse background. A Puerto Rican and Philadelphian, she has worked as a legal services attorney, director of the Congreso de Latinos Unidos, city government official, leader at United Ways, and executive at the financial company Vanguard. Today, she is fully dedicated to the arts not as a pause, but as an evolution to communicate with the world.
Alba channels all this experience into a very special project: the musical La Guagua 47, which celebrates the identity, migration, and sense of belonging of Philadelphia’s Latino community.
Integrating collaborators and building partnerships drives the La Guagua 47 movement. (Photo: Courtesy of La Guagua 47)
Personal connection and project origins
“This project was born from my arrival to Philadelphia in 1985,” Alba explains. After Hurricane María, she felt the need to express herself through music and wrote the song La Guagua 47, which honors the Latino community that welcomed her. That song later inspired a community film in 2022, and before she knew it, she had 20 songs ready for a full musical.
The story of the musical
The musical follows Lucía, a 14-year-old girl from Jayuya, Puerto Rico, who moves to Philadelphia against her will. Feeling lost and without belonging, Lucía’s aunt encourages her to go out and take the Guagua 47 route, a real bus route that connects several Latino communities in the city. Along the journey, Lucía meets people who transform her view of the city and her own identity a journey of discovery and acceptance.
Alba Martínez, creator of the residency, aims to create opportunities for artists. (Photo: Courtesy of La Guagua 47)
A fusion of genres to celebrate diversity
La Guagua 47 is not limited to a single musical style. Its soundtrack includes salsa, funk, soul, pop, reggaetón, and hip hop, aiming to reflect the variety of sounds that shape Latino identity and connect with audiences of different ages and backgrounds.
La Guagua Creativa: The artistic residency that unites the community
For Alba, community participation is essential. That’s why she created the artistic residency La Guagua Creativa at El Taller Puertorriqueño. This space allows the community to engage with the songs, dance, and script, and contribute ideas so the musical is born from the people and felt as their own.
From the start, Alba has committed to collective creation. Through the La Guagua Creativa residency, neighbors actively participate in the project’s development: sharing ideas, reacting to songs, and getting involved in staging. “Community participation is not optional; it’s essential,” Alba emphasizes. “We want this musical to be born from the people and for the community to feel it as theirs.”
Community participation is essential; that’s why residency exists. (Photo: Courtesy of La Guagua 47)
Strategic partnerships to expand reach
The project has key partnerships, including the Philadelphia Theater Company, Esperanza, and El Taller Puertorriqueño. The goal is to bring La Guagua 47 both to Latino cultural centers and the public in Philadelphia, connecting diverse communities and expanding its impact.
Aspirations and more challenges
Alba hopes La Guagua 47 will have a real impact: creating opportunities for artists, generating income for the community, and sharing narratives that celebrate authentic stories. In times when many feel invisible, this musical is a counter-narrative affirming that we all belong and that America is also ours.
Alba’s greatest challenge is continuous learning, as this is her first musical production and residency. Although the process is complex and collaborative, she finds it exciting because it opens new worlds, relationships, and possibilities. She also insists on maintaining high artistic quality to ensure the show is professional and meaningful.
Its soundtrack includes salsa, funk, soul, pop, reggaetón, and hip hop, a musical variety. (Photo: Courtesy of La Guagua 47)
Special Activities in September
September 28: Puerto Rican Parade – There will be a float designed by César Viveros and Natalia Torres, featuring live music, characters from the musical, and community participation.
September 20 and 27: Open workshops at El Taller Puertorriqueño (12 to 5 p.m.) to help create art and decorations for the parade float.
Want to Join the La Guagua 47 Journey?
Visit: www.LaGuaguaMusical.com. Open activities at El Taller Puertorriqueño, Feria del Barrio, Puerto Rican Parade. Everyone is invited because we all belong.
Todo inició con helados y ya se han diversificado con salsas y con jugos en lata con sabores como pie chop, parcha y limonada-fresa.
Helados Chupi Chupi is a Puerto Rican family-owned business that has won over the Philadelphia community with its handcrafted popsicles, natural juices, and treats made with love and quality.
The Support Local initiative highlights this venture, which began in 2018 in the kitchen of Yaralexis Encarnación – better known as Yara—and her father Alexis. It all started when they experimented with making ice cream, and after seeing excellent results, they decided to turn it into a business. At first, they sold their products at church, where the public’s positive response inspired them to dream big and expand.
Currently, Helados Chupi Chupi doesn’t have a physical storefront, but their products are available at several local stores. They also participate in events and activities with a mobile cart and offer services for private events like weddings and birthday parties, with carts that can be adapted to different budgets.
Chupi Chupi sells its products and appears at private events. (Photo: Courtesy of Helados Chupi Chupi)
What sets Helados Chupi apart is the quality and care they put into every product. “We are a family business, and we put love into every popsicle we make,” says Yara, proudly preserving Puerto Rican tradition in every flavor.
Among their star products are popsicles with authentic flavors such as guava, coconut, non-alcoholic piña colada, passion fruit, and tamarind—all with a Boricua twist. They also offer natural juices in can-style packaging, with refreshing flavors like pie chop, passion fruit, and strawberry lemonade.
But that’s not all. Helados Chupi Chupi also prepares handmade empanadas, churros, mini donuts, sugarcane, and fruit empanadas—blending sweet, savory, and a touch of spice to satisfy every craving.
It all started with ice cream, and now they’ve expanded into sauces, Chamoy sauce is among the most popular. (Photo: Courtesy of Helados Chupi Chupi)
For the family behind Helados Chupi Chupi, the message is clear: “We make every product with love and care, and we want the community to know us and support us.”
That’s why, committed to the growth and well-being of our community, we reaffirm the importance of supporting local talent and entrepreneurship. From here, we say: Support local!
For more information, you can find them at @heladoschupipaletas on Facebook and @chupiheladoschupi on Instagram and TikTok.
De acuerdo con las autoridades, un familiar de Tyler Robinson fue el que lo entregó a la policía después de que este le sugiriera haber cometido el crimen.
(Foto: FBI)
Oye, fascista’ y ‘Bella Ciao’, mensajes grabados en munición para asesinar a Charlie Kirk
El hombre acusado del asesinato de Charlie Kirk había expresado previamente a su familia su oposición a las ideas del activista conservador, informaron las autoridades este viernes al anunciar el arresto en un homicidio selectivo que ha generado nuevas alarmas sobre la violencia política en Estados Unidos.
Tyler Robinson, de 22 años, se volvió “más político” en los meses previos al tiroteo y confesó su responsabilidad a un amigo de la familia, según el gobernador de Utah, Spencer Cox. Entre las pruebas clave se encuentran inscripciones en las balas encontradas en el rifle utilizado en el ataque, así como mensajes en una app de chat que un compañero de cuarto compartió con las autoridades.
“Lo tenemos”, dijo el viernes el gobernador de Utah, Spencer Cox, a los periodistas en una conferencia de prensa al anunciar el arresto de Tyler Robinson por el asesinato de Kirk el miércoles en la Universidad del Valle de Utah. Fue detenido anoche.
Allison Hemingway-Witty llora después de que Charlie Kirk fuera baleado durante la visita de Turning Point a la Universidad Utah Valley en Orem, Utah, el miércoles 10 de septiembre de 2025. (Tess Crowley/The Deseret News via AP)
Los casquillos de la munición presuntamente utilizada por Taylor Robinson para asesinar al activista conservador estadounidense Charlie Kirk contenían mensajes como ‘Oye, fascista’ y ‘Bella Ciao’, informaron este viernes las autoridades.
Así lo detalló Cox; según el gobernador, el casquillo de la bala que disparó Robinson y que quitó la vida a Kirk tenía inscrito un mensaje que decía «Nota un bulto. OwO ¿Qué es esto?».
En el cargador del rifle utilizado, las autoridades hallaron otros casquillos de balas sin suar y que contenían mensajes como «Oye, fascista, ¡Atrápalo!» o «Si puedes leer esto, eres gay jajaja».
También «O bella ciao, bella ciao, bella ciao ciao ciao», una canción popular italiana convertida en un himno partisano de la resistencia italiana contra el fascismo de Mussolini y la ocupación nazi durante la Segunda Guerra Mundial.
Cox, republicano, calificó el asesinato de Kirk como un “ataque al experimento estadounidense” y pidió a las nuevas generaciones “elegir un camino diferente”.
Robinson habría actuado solo y la investigación sigue en curso.
Las autoridades recuperaron un rifle de cerrojo de alta potencia cerca del lugar del ataque. Se cree que el disparo fue realizado desde el techo de un edificio en el campus de la Universidad del Valle de Utah (UVU), donde Kirk participaba en un debate organizado por Turning Point USA, la organización política juvenil que cofundó.
Kirk fue alcanzado por un solo disparo en el cuello mientras respondía preguntas sobre violencia armada. El evento, parte de su gira “American Comeback Tour”, reunió a más de 3.000 personas.
El atacante, descrito como de apariencia universitaria, huyó tras saltar del techo y desaparecer en un bosque cercano. Las autoridades recibieron más de 7.000 pistas y realizaron más de 200 entrevistas.
Videos del momento del ataque circularon en redes sociales, mostrando a Kirk hablando cuando se escucha el disparo. Se le ve llevarse la mano al cuello mientras la sangre fluye y los asistentes reaccionan con gritos y pánico.
El 26 de julio de 2024 del comentarista y activista conservador Charlie Kirk durante un evento en West Palm Beach (Estados Unidos). (Foto: EFE/CRISTOBAL HERRERA-ULASHKEVICH/Archivo)
El director general y cofundador de la organización juvenil conservadora Turning Point USA era un destacado podcaster, activista cultural y aliado del presidente Donald Trump. Lideró un esfuerzo para reformar la campaña de movilización de votantes del Partido Republicano en las elecciones de 2024, basado en la teoría de que había miles de seguidores de Trump que rara vez votan, pero que podrían ser persuadidos para hacerlo.
Su asesinato el miércoles es un nuevo caso de violencia política en Estados Unidos que abarca una variedad de ideologías políticas y afecta a los dos grandes partidos políticos.
Esto es lo que se sabe sobre el asesinato de Kirk:
El sospechoso es detenido
Cox dijo que Robinson aparentemente confesó el hecho a un amigo de la familia y que la familia de Robinson dijo que se había vuelto “más político en los últimos años” y había criticado a Kirk, mencionando que iba a estar en un próximo evento en Utah. También habría mencionado que “Kirk estaba lleno de odio y difundiendo odio”.
Cox también informó que los casquillos de bala encontrados en la escena del crimen estaban grabados con mensajes. Uno decía “oye fascista, atrapa”, otro decía “si lees esto eres gay LMAO”, y un tercero hacía referencia a “Bella ciao”, una canción italiana clásica popular entre la izquierda política.
El director del FBI, Kash Patel, elogió la respuesta de las fuerzas del orden al tiroteo, diciendo: “En 33 horas, hemos hecho un progreso histórico para Charlie”.
Un disparo desde un tejado
Kirk estaba hablando en un debate organizado por Turning Point USA en la Universidad del Valle de Utah cuando, según las autoridades, alguien disparó desde un tejado.
Videos publicados en redes sociales muestran a Kirk sentado bajo una carpa blanca y hablando con micrófono en mano. Se oye un solo disparo y Kirk levanta la mano derecha mientras la sangre brota del lado izquierdo de su cuello.
Valle de Utah es la universidad pública más grande del estado, con 47.000 estudiantes matriculados. Está unos 64 kilómetros (40 millas) al sur de la capital del estado, Salt Lake City.
La búsqueda del asesino
Un día antes de que se anunciara el arresto del sospechoso, el FBI dijo que estaba buscando a una “persona de interés” en el tiroteo y publicó una serie de fotos que mostraban a la persona con un sombrero, gafas de sol, camisa negra de manga larga y una mochila.
La policía de Utah compartió un video de la persona corriendo por el techo del edificio desde donde las autoridades dicen que se disparó, bajando al suelo y saliendo del campus. Dijeron que el tirador dejó rastros, incluida una huella de palma, que los investigadores esperaban que pudieran proporcionar pistas sobre su identidad. También planearon realizar pruebas de ADN.
Las autoridades dijeron que el tirador parecía “tener edad universitaria” y “se mezclaba” con la población universitaria.
Combo de imágenes cedidas del supuesto asesino de Charlie Kirk. EFE/FBI
Un rifle escondido en una toalla fue recuperado en un área boscosa cerca del campus universitario en el camino de huida del tirador, según información circulada entre las fuerzas del orden y compartida con The Associated Press. Había un cartucho gastado en la cámara del arma y otras tres balas en el cargador.
Las autoridades recibieron más de 10.000 pistas e informaciones y pidieron al público que continuara enviándolas, agregando que “ninguna pista es demasiado pequeña”.
Dos personas fueron detenidas el miércoles, pero se determinó que no estaban conectadas con el tiroteo y ambas fueron liberadas, dijeron funcionarios de seguridad pública.
La universidad canceló las clases durante la semana y cerró el campus hasta al menos el lunes.
El ascenso de Kirk de asistente de Trump a influyente conservador importante
Trump dijo que habló extensamente con la viuda de Kirk el jueves, pero no entró en los detalles de lo que discutieron.
“Está devastada, está absolutamente devastada, como pueden imaginar”, informó a los periodistas en la Casa Blanca.
Kirk tenía 18 años cuando cofundó Turning Point en los suburbios de Chicago en 2012 con William Montgomery, un activista del Tea Party. Su objetivo era llevar sus ideas de bajos impuestos y gobierno limitado a los campus universitarios.
Turning Point apoyó con entusiasmo a Trump después de que asegurara la nominación del Partido Republicano para presidente en 2016. Kirk sirvió como asistente personal del hijo mayor del entonces candidato, Donald Trump Jr., durante la campaña de las elecciones generales.
La conexión con Trump ayudó a impulsar el ascenso de Turning Point. Pronto, Kirk fue una presencia habitual en la televisión por cable, donde se sumergió en las guerras culturales y elogió al presidente.
Un mensaje sobre el activista de extrema derecha Charlie Kirk, el líder de la organización Turning Point USA que fue asesinado a tiros el miércoles, en una vigilia en su memoria, el jueves 11 de septiembre de 2025, en Orem, Utah. (Foto: AP/Lindsey Wasson)
Las contribuciones al grupo se duplicaron y luego se triplicaron, hasta alcanzar los 79,2 millones de dólares en 2022, según un análisis de declaraciones de impuestos disponibles públicamente. El grupo afirma que ahora tiene presencia en casi 4.000 campus de escuelas secundarias y universidades, operando como una marca de estilo de vida conservador que promueve a cientos de influencers en línea.
Kirk era conocido por declaraciones provocativas sobre la raza que utilizaba para atraer a los votantes de la Generación Z.
“Lo siento. Si veo a un piloto negro, voy a pensar, ‘Chico, espero que esté calificado’”, dijo Kirk durante un episodio de podcast de 2024 con el compañero activista de derecha Jack Posobeic.
Kirk se opuso firmemente a la promulgación de Juneteenth como feriado federal. Dijo que la medida para consagrar el feriado estaba motivada por un sentimiento “antiestadounidense” que promovía “una visión neosegregacionista” que, según él, buscaba suplantar al Día de la Independencia.
Políticos se unen para condenar el ataque
Tanto republicanos como demócratas condenaron rápidamente el ataque.
Trump ordenó que las banderas se bajaran a media asta y emitió una proclamación presidencial. El presidente, que sufrió una lesión menor en la oreja cuando le dispararon en un evento de campaña el año pasado, dijo que él y Kirk tenían una relación cercana.
Describió a Kirk en Truth Social como un “gran tipo de pies a cabeza. ¡DIOS LO BENDIGA!”.
El gobernador demócrata de California, Gavin Newsom, quien en marzo pasado recibió a Kirk en su podcast, publicó en X: “El ataque a Charlie Kirk es repugnante, vil y reprensible”.
Monumento improvisado en la sede nacional de Turning Point USA después de la muerte a tiros de Charlie Kirk, su cofundador y director ejecutivo, el miércoles 10 de septiembre de 2025 en Phoenix, Arizona. (Foto: AP/Ross D. Franklin)
Trump anunció que otorgará a Kirk la Medalla Presidencial de la Libertad, el mayor honor civil en EE.UU. El vicepresidente JD Vance y su esposa visitaron a la familia de Kirk en Salt Lake City.
El ataúd de Kirk fue trasladado en el Air Force Two a Phoenix, sede de su organización. Trump planea asistir al funeral, cuyos detalles aún no se han anunciado.
