Charlie Kirk tribute proposed at UVU after fatal shooting
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Flowers on the ground in front of the Utah Valley University sign on Sept. 11 in Orem, Utah. Photo: Kim Bojórquez/Axios
Some Utah Republican lawmakers have begun fundraising to erect a proposed memorial to conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University, where he was fatally shot this week.
Why it matters: Though it's unclear if the memorial will materialize, honoring Kirk with a permanent tribute may prove divisive within the campus community.
- The 31-year-old achieved a meteoric rise in conservative politics, but was viewed as a provocateur by his liberal critics.
- School officials could be forced to navigate how to acknowledge Kirk's death without appearing partisan.
State of play: Matthew Burbank, a political science professor at the University of Utah, told Axios most universities carefully review donation-based projects before they are added to campus to see if they align with the school's broader goals.
What they're saying: "If there is some way to memorialize Kirk without appearing politically ideological, the university may be inclined to move forward with it, especially if donor funds are involved," he said.
By the number: As of Friday afternoon, donors had contributed roughly $33,000 toward the fundraiser's $50,000 goal.
- The funds aim to cover the construction, maintenance and permits for the memorial, according to the online fundraiser.
- The names of Sen. Dan McCay (R-Riverton), House Speaker Mike Schultz and state Rep. Trevor Lee (R-Layton) were featured beneath the fundraising message.
- McCay did not immediately respond to Axios' request for comment.
What they're saying: "The memorial will serve as a gathering place for students, faculty, and visitors to reflect on Charlie's legacy of courage, conviction, and dedication to fostering open discourse," a description of the fundraiser reads.
- A spokesperson for Utah Valley University did not immediately return Axios' request for comment.
The big picture: Congressional Republicans separately on Thursday proposed a statue of Kirk in the U.S. Capitol.
- That same day, President Trump said he planned to honor Kirk with the Presidential Medal of Freedom — the nation's highest civilian honor.