Full Breakdown
Memorials for Charlie Kirk Mark One-Year Anniversary
8/24/2026, 12:27:49 AM
Core Event: Utah Valley University Memorial
Turning Point USA has scheduled a private memorial titled “Freedom Built to Last” for September 10 at the UCCU Center on the Utah Valley University (UVU) campus in Orem. The event will be held on the anniversary of the shooting that killed the organization’s founder, Charlie Kirk, and will feature speakers Glenn Beck, Frank Turek, Andrew Sypher, and Caleb Chilcutt. UVU will close regular campus operations that day, but the arena will remain open for the privately organized gathering.
Background & Context
Charlie Kirk, the founder and president of Turning Point USA, was fatally shot while answering questions during his “All-American Comeback Tour” on the UVU campus in September 2025. Kirk had built Turning Point USA into the nation’s largest conservative youth organization, claiming more than 1 million members across high-school and college chapters. He was also known for viral debate videos that amassed 15 billion views in 2024 and for promoting a Christian-centered approach to political activism.
Data & Statistics
- Turning Point USA membership: > 1 million members.
- Kirk’s 2024 video reach: 15 billion views.
- Destin artificial reef honoring Kirk: 17 tons, funded with $17,000 raised by local volunteers.
Official Statements & Responses
The organization’s faith-focused arm, TPUSA Faith, announced a nationwide initiative beginning September 13 that invites Christians of all denominations to honor Kirk by bringing a friend or family member to church throughout the month.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Initial campus news reports suggested UVU had withdrawn from plans to host the memorial. UVU later clarified that while the campus would be closed for regular activities on September 10, the UCCU Center would remain open for the privately organized event. The discrepancy highlights ongoing communication challenges between the university and Turning Point USA.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The martyrdom of Charlie Kirk is the most significant American event in the 21st century,” — Glenn Beck
- “Utah Valley University seeks to foster healing for our community following the assassination of Charlie Kirk,” — Sharon Turner
- “One year later, we return to the very site where that evil occurred,” — Andrew Sypher
- “Charlie’s spirit lives on in every student who is courageous enough to speak out about their beliefs and argue rather than simply walk away.” — Caleb Chilcutt
- “We are coming together one year after that evil deed not in despair but to celebrate the example he set and the Lord he served,” — Frank Turek, point usa’s chief
What’s Next
- September 13: TPUSA Faith’s nationwide “make Heaven crowded” initiative begins, encouraging church attendance in honor of Kirk.
- The Destin reef, now submerged off Henderson Beach, is expected to attract divers and anglers for decades, providing a lasting marine tribute to Kirk’s legacy.
