In honor of the slain founder of Turning Point USA, Charlie Kirk, residents in Orange County, Los Angeles County, and Riverside County in Southern California held candlelight vigils on September 13-14. Some stood in silent mourning holding candles, while others chanted “USA! Charlie!” or “We are all Charlie!”.
At the Huntington Beach Pier in Orange County, people held banners with Kirk’s photo, protecting lit candles with their hands. Several young boys carefully arranged candles into a heart shape while soothing music played, reminiscing about this true patriot.
In a tribute to Charlie Kirk, Turning Point USA wrote, “Through Turning Point, Charlie ignited a flame in the hearts of millions every day. He showed a generation that truth can never be suppressed, courage is infectious, and freedom must be defended at all costs.”
The shocking and heartbreaking news of Charlie’s murder left people like college student John Linds in disbelief, initially thinking it was a joke. Linds said, “Charlie was an incredible patriot, a man of conviction who openly shared his views, yet met his end in this tragic way. Even if we may have differing views, his murder is despicable and sickening.”
“Some are trying to sow division, but whether you are conservative or liberal, we need to come together,” Linds said. While not particularly following Kirk closely, he and his father enjoyed watching his programs. Linds referenced the persecution outlined in the Bible, stating that just as Jesus was crucified for sharing God’s word, Charlie faced persecution for his faith.
The suspect who fatally shot Kirk is 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, who had attended Utah State University for a semester and is now studying at Dixie Technical College in Utah.
“I detest hatred and senseless killings. Charlie was a good man, and we are devastated,” said Mr. Ruan, who maintains a neutral stance on social media to avoid algorithm-driven polarization. “That young man was radicalized by social media, leading to such extreme actions.”
Josh remarked, “Charlie set an example for us, and inspired by him, we want to live in his legacy. He advocated for freedom of speech, for equal expression. We too aim to fearlessly speak the truth.” Josh and his wife attended the memorial with their two children. The 9-year-old boy mentioned he had seen videos of Charlie with his mother and knew of him. Josh’s wife expressed sorrow for Charlie’s two young children who would grow up without their father’s love, a heartbreaking reality.
After Charlie’s passing, his love story with wife Erica spread online, garnering over 900,000 views in two days. They first met at the Turning Point USA office when Erica went for a job interview. Their second meeting at a burger joint led Charlie to express interest in dating her within 15 minutes of conversation.
Reflecting on her conversation with Charlie, Erica recalled, “We discussed many topics and talked for over three hours.” She called her mother that night, saying, “I didn’t get the job, but I found a boyfriend.” Initially consoling her, Erica’s mom later exclaimed, “That’s fantastic!”
Lynn had encountered Charlie at a church, recalling his strong memory, ability to speak facts after listening, and captivating speech. Melody, who had watched Charlie’s podcasts, admired his love for God, country, and family, along with his respectful and loving demeanor towards those with different views.
Teresa had watched many of Charlie’s campus debate videos. She and her husband prayed for Charlie, stating that he guided young people towards God and conservative values, an ethos laid down by the founding fathers. Teresa mourned Charlie’s loss, expressing a wish for him to become the country’s president one day.
Robert Harrison described Charlie as God’s messenger, delivering messages of right and wrong in a gentle manner, igniting a movement. He urged individuals not to be deterred by pain and to emulate Charlie’s peaceful approach.
Samantha Collins lamented the tragedy, stating, “Charlie was a faithful servant of God, and we, along with people worldwide, feel like we’ve lost a brother.”
“I know Charlie is watching over us from heaven, proud of our actions. This is just the beginning. My inner flame has been ignited, and I will no longer be silent about my beliefs and views,” Collins asserted, emphasizing that every terrible event in the world can bring about spiritual enlightenment. She hoped Charlie’s spiritual legacy would endure globally.
“This is a pivotal moment, akin to a call for revival. Those indifferent will be moved, while others will continue to scoff,” Stevie Ray remarked. “We’ve long lost faith, and he (Kirk) aimed to restore it. Charlie was first a missionary and then an activist; he’s sowing seeds, even if we can’t yet see the results.”