Phoenix,AZ – Hundreds gathered at turning point Action in Phoenix on Monday,September 11,to honor the life of Charlie Kirk,the 31-year-old conservative activist who was recently assassinated. The memorial drew supporters from diverse backgrounds, united in grief adn a shared concern over the implications of his death.
Kirk, known for his campus appearances fostering open debate on controversial topics, was killed while engaging in that very mission. His death has sparked fears among conservatives about the potential chilling affect on free speech, with many attendees expressing determination not to be silenced.
“Weather you like him or not, is much more than a loss of someone. It’s the fact that now my generation is being taught that we shouldn’t speak out or things like this can happen,” said Keegan Hibbs, a Grand Canyon University student and Kirk supporter.”And that’s exactly why I’m out here and showing a presence, because it’s extremely significant that in times like this, we don’t cower down and fall into what the ultimately this is meant to do, you know, and we actually reach out in, you know, like there were Catholic people here, Jewish people here. I mean, we’re all coming in with unity. And that’s exactly what you need right now.”
The event also resonated deeply with families wanting to instill a sense of remembrance and reflection in their children. “It’s day that’s going to change the world. And I want them to be here to see it. Honor his memory. To pray for his soul.Pray for his family,” said Erin Hanson, a local mother.
Arizona State University is planning a prayer vigil service for Kirk on September 15 at 5:30 p.m. Former President Donald Trump has stated he feels obligated to attend the funeral, though plans have not yet been finalized.
This report is based on interviews conducted by FOX 10’s Kenzie Beach at the September 11 memorial.
