PHOENIX – Local groups are continuing to arrange events to honor Charlie Kirk after his assassination on Sept. 10.
Local perspective:
Several West Valley groups partnered on an event at Dillon’s at the Wildlife World Zoo in Surprise, including the Republican Women of Wickenburg, Dillon’s, and local politicians. Lots of vehicles and motorcycles packed into the parking lot, and were adorned with American flags, Trump signs, and other messaging.
People said they went for a sense of community after Kirk’s death, and other violent events of the past week, including the Charlotte transit stabbing and the Colorado school shooting.
They said Charlie Kirk was someone that inspired them and now they want to gather to honor his life and his family, hoping those who come out to the tribute ride are able to gain some peace and unity after a heavy week.
What they’re saying:
“We just lost the voice of us, of America and we’re gonna continue the fight,” said co-organizer Steven Julian. “It’s devastating what happened and we’re gonna continue to fight and we’re gonna continue that voice on and there are a lot of Charlie Kirks out there right now.”
“I think what a lot of people are experiencing, and this is me kinda projecting a little bit, is that they don’t know what to turn this sadness and anger towards,” said Surprise resident Ed Cunningham. “I’m going to encourage everyone to turn that inward, to find grace, to not judge others unless you’re gonna judge yourself the same way.”
The tribute ride will end at the Dillon’s at Western Trails Ranch in Morristown, followed by speakers and a candlelight vigil.
Dig deeper:
Earlier in the day, a herd of motorcyclists cruised across the Valley to honor Charlie Kirk. Hundreds of motorcycles made their way down State Route 51 and circled around Turning Point USA headquarters.
“Just to show support. Riding is freedom. Just to let people know that we’re still out here, we’re not going to cave [or] falter, [we’re] still going to stand up for our rights,” said one rider.
The riders were out in memory of Kirk, who was killed on Sept. 10 while speaking at Utah Valley University.
“I couldn’t believe it. I was on a ride, I got off my bike, looked at my phone, I was in shock,” said one rider, who said they just started following Kirk on social media six months ago. “I liked his interaction at the universities and what he had to say. [He] was a brilliant man, he really was. He makes people think about everything they are saying and teaching in schools today. So I was saddened, very saddened, and in shock.”
“Just to show support for somebody that did not deserve what happened. It is not about political left [or] right. He spoke his truth and he was killed for it and it doesn’t matter what side of the spectrum you’re on, you still have the freedom to feel the way you feel, you have the freedom to voice it, but you don’t have the freedom or right to force your views on another person or take another person’s voice because of it,” said Kevin White.
The riders said their hearts go out to Kirk’s family left behind, his wife Erika and their two young children.
“They were there, they should have never seen that, but that’s the climate we’re in at this day and age. It is hard to have unity,” said White.
Marlene Tare, another rider, said, “He was a great husband and honestly a great public speaker, so we came to show our respect.”
The Source: This information was gathered by FOX 10’s Nicole Krasean and Irene Snyder, who spoke with those who attended the vigils on Sept. 13.
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