Vigils lit up cities nationwide after the shocking death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk in Utah on Wednesday. Kirk, 31, co-founded Turning Point USA and often appeared on college campuses. A gunman shot him during an event at Utah Valley University. Although paramedics rushed him to the hospital, doctors later pronounced him dead. The attack stunned his supporters and opponents alike.
In response, Turning Point USA chapters quickly organized candlelight vigils across college campuses that same night. At the same time, Russell Johnson, pastor at The Pursuit in Washington, shared details of one local gathering. Specifically, he wrote, “We’re meeting at Westlake Park to pray and stand for peace.”
Meanwhile, Rep. Ryan Zinke announced a Capitol Hill church service. “Join us in prayer for Charlie, his family, and our divided nation,” he urged. In Arizona, Catholics for Catholics hosted a rosary vigil. “Charlie was our friend,” they wrote on Instagram. “Now we pray for his eternal rest.”
The post added, “He attended our church. We loved him, and America loves him too. It’s time to pray.” Additionally, the New York Yankees paused before Wednesday night’s game for a moment of silence. “Charlie Kirk inspired a generation,” the team said. “He made his mark on youth activism nationwide.”
Kevin Smith, founder of The Loud Majority, announced a separate vigil for Saturday in New York. Across the political spectrum, leaders mourned Kirk and called for an end to ideological hatred.
President Donald Trump posted a heartfelt tribute on Truth Social. “Charlie loved this country and its youth. We will miss him,” he wrote. Even Democrats, like California Governor Gavin Newsom, condemned the violence. “This attack was vile and un-American,” he said on X.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu honored Kirk as a “lion-hearted defender of truth.” Bruce Pearl, Auburn’s basketball coach, also expressed grief. “Young patriots across campuses feel this loss deeply,” he said.
As the country reacts, a clear message rises from both leaders and citizens: Reject political violence. We must honor Charlie’s legacy not with anger—but with action. Reject political violence before it destroys more lives.
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