More than 200 people gathered on the lawn in front of Town Hall on Saturday evening for a remembrance of Charlie Kirk and a celebration of his life.
Charles James Kirk, a conservative activist and commentator, died on September 10 from severe trauma and blood loss soon after being shot in the neck while on stage at an event at Utah Valley University. He leaves a widow, Erika, and two young children. Mr. Kirk was 31 years old at the time of his death. A suspect has been apprehended in relation to the shooting.
Mr. Kirk was a founder of nonprofit organization Turning Point USA (https://www.tpusa.com), whose mission, per its website, “is to identify, educate, train, and organize students to promote the principles of fiscal responsibility, free markets, and limited government.” Mr. Kirk would often visit college campuses and invite debate with students.
State Representative Tom O’Dea, who represents New Canaan, Darien and Stamford, spoke, noting Mr. Kirk’s “deep love for America, his belief in open dialogue, and his commitment to making our society better — not through anger or force, but through faith, conversation, debate, and mutual respect.”
Rep. O’Dea continued, remarking that Mr. Kirk’s “assassination stands out not just for its cruelty—but because of what it represents. It’s a symbol of something deeper that’s broken: not just the devaluation of life but also the growing belief that violence is justified when we disagree.” Rep. O’Dea also cited the recent “senseless murders in Minnesota” of Roman Catholic school children, and of State Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband.
Rev. Stuart Knechtle, assistant pastor at New Canaan’s Grace Community Church (https://www.gracecommunity.info), also spoke. In an interview with the New Canaan Sentinel, Rev. Knechtle said “Charlie was a friend of mine,” and that they had worked together on podcasts and other events. This “very good buddy” was “more of an evangelist than a politician” and a man of great faith with an “incredible work ethic.” And if Mr. Kirk wanted to be remembered for anything, it would be for “’the courage for my faith.’ So he didn’t say ‘courage for my political position’ or ‘courage for a political policy.’ He said for his faith.”
Rep. O’Dea summed it up this way: “His [Mr. Kirk’s] entire mission was to foster faith and honest, respectful dialogue.”
Jill Guzzetti concluded the Remembrance Celebration for Mr. Kirk by leading everyone in singing ‘America the Beautiful.’
