On the first anniversary of conservative activist Charlie Kirk’s death, a debate is shaping up over a memorial event taking place Thursday at the Utah Valley University campus where he was assassinated last September while participating in a Q&A that touched on gun violence.
The evening gathering is being hosted by Turning Point USA, which Kirk founded in 2012 to promote its leader’s ideology and activate young conservatives. That organization, now headed by its founder’s wife, Erika Kirk, will feature speeches from former Fox News host Glenn Beck and Christian author Frank Turek.
The UVU campus closed Thursday to “provide time and space time for reflection,” according to the Salt Lake Tribune. Some students have taken issue with the school’s decision to cancel classes.
The UVU chapter of Students for a Democratic Society petitioned the school to stop TPUSA from bringing “racism, sexism, bigotry, and hatred” to their campus.
UVU President Jon Anderson reportedly said it’s important the university doesn’t stake a political position.
“Any entity could’ve used that space, and they chose to have that day. And we allowed them to do that,” he said.
A school spokesperson told Axios the university hasn’t promoted TPUSA’s “Freedom Built to Last Memorial” and is not affiliated with the organization.
Kirk’s organization posted a statement on Thursday memorializing its founder as a “martyr for Christ” and vowing to continue his mission.
“One year later, Turning Point remains committed to carrying forward the work Charlie began,” TPUSA said.
The White House marked the anniversary of Kirk’s killing with an order for flags on federal building to fly at half-staff through sunset on Monday.
“We love you CK, and miss you every day,” Vice President JD Vance posted on X.
Utah man Tyler Robinson, 23, has been charged with aggravated murder in connection with Kirk’s death. He pleaded not guilty.