TFP Caravan Against Socialism Divides the Waters in New York City
There’s never a dull moment in New York City—and the last week of October was no exception. That’s when the young men of Tradition, Family, Property (TFP) traveled to Manhattan to urge New Yorkers to reject socialism and defend true freedom.
From Staten Island to Manhattan and the Bronx, TFP Student Action members held a series of high-profile street campaigns against socialism. Their bold message drew strong reactions and considerable public attention.
Liberals Get Triggered at Columbia University
The caravan stop at Columbia University received immediate reactions from students and faculty.
TFP member Rafael Ramos engaged in a lively debate with two left-leaning professors who accused TFP volunteers of “looking like fascists.” Rafael responded by explaining how fascism and communism are related and equally condemnable. Surprised, one leftist professor said, “Oh, we didn’t know that.”
Leftist: “I’m in favor of thievery!”
Socialism and stealing go hand in hand. One of the slogans TFP Student Action volunteers proclaimed was: “Justice gives everyone his due, but socialism steals from me and you!”
That point was confirmed when a leftist openly endorsed theft. “Yes, I am a socialist and Marxist,” he said without hesitation, “and I am in favor of thievery.”
Prayer and Support
While campaigning in front of the New York Public Library on Fifth Avenue, many locals and tourists stopped to accept TFP flyers and offer words of encouragement.
“I've seen you on social media,” said one woman. “I see you get attacked a lot. So I will be praying for your safety this afternoon.”
Another passerby pointed to the leaflet titled 10 Reasons Against Socialism and remarked, “I can give you a lot more than 10 reasons why socialism is bad.”
Several people who had fled socialist regimes expressed deep gratitude. Having lived through the horrors of Marxism, they recognized its dangers firsthand.
A woman from Hong Kong said, “Thank you for what you do! God bless you. People need to hear this." She spoke sorrowfully about Hong Kong’s takeover by communist China. A TFP member replied, “At least you’re free in New York.” She raised her flyer and responded poignantly, “Free for now, at least.”
Socialists Shun Work
Socialist systems foster dependence on government handouts, reducing the incentive to work or take personal responsibility. During one discussion, a self-identified socialist complained, “If I want to feed myself, I have to get a job and make money.”
A TFP member replied, “Exactly, that’s reality. Socialism is wrong because it promises free money without work. It creates slaves, thieves, and bums who depend on a nanny state.”
Honoring a Hero: Fred Porfilio
To conclude the New York leg of their anti-socialism caravan, the young men of TFP visited St. Raymond’s Cemetery to pay their respects at the grave of Mr. Fred Porfilio, a dedicated TFP member.
Mr. Porfilio died in a tragic car accident on September 3, 1990, while leading a TFP caravan supporting the freedom of Lithuania from communist oppression. A native New Yorker, he set an enduring example as a tireless and courageous defender of truth, helping to expose the evils of communism.
His legacy continues to inspire today’s generation of TFP members who carry forward the peaceful crusade against socialism and who remain steadfast in their mission to keep America free and united under Christ the King.