Remembering Charlie Kirk

OPINION — One year ago, an incredible man’s life was taken from us. Aside from his “Prove Me Wrong” tours and show, Charlie Kirk also focused on getting out the vote through Turning Point. Through college and high school clubs, Chase the Vote, voter registration, and coalitions, he built connection and opportunity for the right.

Through Turning Point Faith, Charlie empowered churches to recognize that they have a place in the public square. He hosted the most impactful political events in decades.

Charlie also worked behind the scenes to keep factions of the conservative movement together. He was consistently a voice of reason within our movement.

In the wake of his murder, we saw both extraordinary human kindness and the lowest depths of cruelty. We received countless stories from people who said Charlie inspired them to turn to Christ, become Republicans, run for office, volunteer for campaigns or simply find the courage to speak. He touched countless lives and fundamentally changed the conservative movement for the better.

Some want you to believe Charlie was “just a podcaster.” They want you to forget his massive impact on the political world. Some may find comfort in pretending politics is still as simple as they once believed.

Others may throw up their hands, convinced there is nothing they can do to change the country. Still others may choose to believe the claim that Charlie was an extremist, because acknowledging how closely he aligned with their own beliefs would mean confronting that that same hatred is aimed at them, too.

If he were here, Charlie would tell us to ignore the hate and work harder. He would demand the best from us. Some may sit on the sidelines and declare defeat. But as for me and my household, we will pick up the mic.

For Charlie.

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