Charlie Kirk’s UVU Memorial Draws Protests

One year after Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk was fatally shot while speaking at Utah Valley University in 2025, survivors and communities continued to process the trauma and aftermath. Turning Point USA held a private, ticketed memorial at UVU’s UCCU Center on Sept. 10, while left-wing student groups planned protests over the university’s decision to host the event and Kirk’s views. UVU canceled classes for reflection and healing but kept the center open with security measures. The killing intensified national debates over political violence, Kirk’s legacy and student expression; the accused shooter pleaded not guilty and the federal investigation remained ongoing. The aftermath also included increased church attendance described by some leaders as the “Charlie Kirk Effect,” changes to federal counterterrorism priorities and legislative efforts concerning political and ideological student groups.