UPDATE: A powerful memorial service for Charlie Kirk drew tens of thousands to State Farm Stadium in Arizona on Sunday, where he was celebrated as a “martyr” and “warrior” for the conservative movement. The event comes just days after Kirk was fatally shot on September 10, 2023, during his The American Comeback Tour at Utah Valley University.
The atmosphere was filled with emotion as President Donald Trump and key conservative figures delivered heartfelt tributes. “None of us will ever forget Charlie Kirk, and neither now will history,” Trump declared, emphasizing Kirk’s significance to the MAGA movement.
Kirk, who founded Turning Point USA at age 18, was renowned for his controversial stances on issues ranging from gun violence to race, often sparking heated debates. During the memorial, speakers described him as a modern-day martyr, with some invoking his Christian faith. Conservative commentator Benny Johnson stated passionately, “Evil thought there’d be a funeral today; God has created a revival right here in this house right now.”
Vice President JD Vance, a close friend, echoed similar sentiments, labeling Kirk a “hero to the United States” and a martyr for Christian values. Speakers pledged to continue Kirk’s legacy, with Stephen Miller declaring that Kirk’s death ignited a “fire in our hearts.”
Trump hailed Kirk’s organization as a “juggernaut of American politics,” predicting that it would emerge “bigger and better than ever before.” The service featured a blend of worship and political rhetoric, with attendees raising their hands in praise throughout.
In an emotional address, Erika Kirk, Charlie’s widow, revealed her decision to forgive the alleged shooter, Tyler Robinson, who has been charged with aggravated murder. “The answer to hate is not hate,” she told the crowd, which responded with a standing ovation. Erika shared her heart-wrenching experience of seeing her husband’s body, emphasizing the peace he found in his final moments.
Taking over as CEO of Turning Point USA, Erika vowed to uphold her husband’s mission. “No assassin will ever stop us for standing up to defend those rights ever,” she asserted, emphasizing the importance of free speech and debate on college campuses.
Trump concluded the service by calling Kirk “immortal,” highlighting his role as a “missionary for American liberty.” He contrasted his views with Kirk’s, stating, “Charlie did not hate his opponents,” before launching into critiques of the political left, attributing violence to their actions.
The memorial service marked a significant moment for the conservative community, uniting supporters in their resolve to honor Kirk’s legacy and continue his work in American politics. As the crowd dispersed, the sense of purpose and determination to carry on Kirk’s fight was palpable.
This urgent memorial not only reflects the sorrow of a community but also the resolve to continue the conversation and activism that Kirk championed throughout his life. Watch for further developments as Kirk’s movement seeks to redefine the landscape of American conservatism in the wake of this tragic loss.
