Remembering Charlie Kirk: A Gathering of Supporters

An event was held on Saturday at Lakewood Chapel in Arlington Heights to commemorate the death anniversary of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Around 150 people of various ages, including families, adults, and students, gathered to honor Kirk’s memory and message.

Erik Troe, a field representative for the nonprofit political organization Turning Point USA, remarked, “This is a family-friendly event. We got what we wanted — just the remembrance of Charlie and his legacy. His students are his legacy.”

Charlie Kirk founded Turning Point USA in 2012 after graduating from Wheeling High School. Born in Arlington Heights, Kirk was a prominent conservative activist and media personality. He was tragically killed in September 2025 during an event at Utah Valley University. Known for his work in mobilizing young Republican voters, Kirk was a strong ally of President Donald Trump.

Turning Point USA’s mission is to “identify, educate, train, and organize students to promote the principles of freedom, free markets, and limited government.” Faith and religion are integral to their mission as well.

Kirk’s political views were often polarizing. While some saw him as a welcoming leader, others criticized his controversial stances on issues like abortion, gun control, and LGBTQ+ rights.

During the 2023-24 election cycle, the Turning Point PAC spent $872,814 in support of Trump. Despite the challenges, Turning Point focuses on students. Northern Illinois has about 30 high school clubs, with around 100 statewide.

Daniel Paderin, a junior and co-president of Club America at Wheeling High School, said the club faced pushback. Olivia Murphy, another student, expressed the desire to embody Kirk’s values without mirroring him entirely. Jillian Franz, the group’s secretary-treasurer, and Maggie Corbett, founder of Club America at Lake Forest High School, echoed similar sentiments of understanding and perseverance.

The remembrance program included speeches and closed with 14 students from various high schools receiving a standing ovation. Other commemorations this week included a gathering at Matt’s BBQ Lemont for a memorial event featuring student speeches and a livestream from Utah Valley University.

Amanda Szulc, involved in local Republican politics, credits Kirk for inspiring her political involvement. She praised his engagement with young students and the encouragement they received to voice their beliefs.

Pastor John Elleson of Lakewood Chapel stated, “Whether you like the guy or not, it doesn’t matter because we’ve got to settle down a little bit and see the good in one another.” As the event concluded, the hope for common understanding and a shared future was highlighted.