Protests Planned for Memorial of Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University

<p>Turning Point USA (TPUSA) is set to host a memorial for its founder Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University (UVU) on the first anniversary of his death, prompting a planned protest by a student group.</p><p>In a press release, TPUSA announced that the 'Freedom Built to Last Memorial' will take place on September 10 to honor Kirk, described as a faith-filled husband, father, and defender of free speech. The event will feature speeches from radio host Glenn Beck, Christian author Frank Turek, and TPUSA officials.</p><p>UVU has announced that it will cancel classes and close its campus on September 10 for a day of healing, service, and connection.</p><p>However, some students have expressed opposition to the memorial. According to The Salt Lake Tribune, UVU’s Students for a Democratic Society club plans to protest the event before it begins. The group has written an open letter to campus administration, reportedly signed by over 600 individuals.</p><p>The letter states, "We, students of UVU, strongly condemn the decision to hand over our campus to TPUSA on September 10. As we approach the anniversary of this tragic event, it should be made clear that many of us will be further negatively affected by allowing TPUSA to occupy our campus on that day."</p><p>Students also criticized the university's decision to close the campus and communicate details about the event, claiming it aligns with the interests of TPUSA, which they describe as an organization that promotes divisive ideas.</p><p>UVU President Jon Anderson clarified that the event is not sponsored by the university, although security will be provided. He emphasized the importance of maintaining an apolitical stance, stating, "Any entity could’ve used that space, and they chose to have that day. And we allowed them to do that."</p><p>Fox News Digital reached out to UVU and TPUSA for comment but did not receive an immediate response.</p>