J 1266: Mourning the death of Charles James Kirk, distinguished citizen and advocate for peaceful civic engagement

 Senate Resolution No. 1266 BY: Senator ORTT MOURNING the death of Charles James Kirk, distinguished citizen and advocate for peaceful civic engagement WHEREAS, It is with profound sorrow that this Legislative Body records the passing of Charles James "Charlie" Kirk, a prominent conservative activist, author, and founder of the national organization Turning Point USA, who was tragically assassinated on September 10, 2025, while participating in a public debate at Utah Valley University; and WHEREAS, Charlie Kirk, born with a strong sense of civic responsibility and passion for American values, founded Turning Point USA in 2012 at the age of 19, with the mission to educate and empower young Americans; and WHEREAS, Under his leadership, Turning Point USA grew into a national movement, with over 800 college chapters across the country, providing a platform for students to engage in open political discourse and ensuring that all voices were heard on college campuses; and WHEREAS, Charlie Kirk was deeply committed to fostering peaceful civic engagement, traveling extensively to engage students in dialogue, often with those who disagreed with him, demonstrating a strong belief in the value of free expression, respectful debate, and the democratic process; and WHEREAS, Charlie Kirk's tragic and untimely death while engaging in open dialogue exemplifies both the courage with which he lived his life and the risk borne by those who participate meaningfully in public discourse; and WHEREAS, He will be remembered not only for his political impact, but also for his unwavering dedication to peaceful engagement, mentorship of young leaders, belief in the power of ideas over violence, and for being a loving husband and father to two young children; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to mourn the death of Charles James "Charlie" Kirk, a distinguished citizen and devoted member of his community and nation, and to extend its deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the countless individuals whose lives he touched; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to the family of Charlie Kirk as an expression of heartfelt sympathy and enduring respect.