Erika Kirk, the wife of activist Charlie Kirk, has announced her forgiveness for Tyler Robinson, the man arrested for allegedly shooting and assassinating her husband.
"My husband wanted to save young men like the one who took his life. I forgive that young man," said Erika Kirk, 36, tearfully before a crowd of more than 60,000 people during a memorial service for her late husband at State Farm Stadium in Arizona on September 21.
Charlie Kirk, a 31-year-old conservative activist, was fatally shot by 22-year-old Tyler Robinson while speaking at Utah Valley University in Utah on September 10. Kirk was the co-founder of the conservative youth organization Turning Point USA and an important ally of former President Donald Trump.
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President Donald Trump embraces Erika Kirk, wife of activist Charlie Kirk, on stage at the memorial service held at State Farm Stadium, Arizona, on September 21. Photo: AP
"I forgive him because that's what God would do. And that's what Charlie would have done. The answer to hatred is not more hate," Erika added.
Former President Trump also attended the memorial. Speaking from behind bulletproof glass, he praised Charlie Kirk as having a "kind heart" and an "unyielding fighting spirit."
According to Trump, Kirk had previously spoken to him about receiving death threats.
"He knew the risks, but he never backed down," Trump said, while also accusing violence of stemming "primarily from the Left."
"He was like a missionary, with noble spirit and a higher purpose. Charlie did not hate his opponents — he wished the best for them. I don’t agree with Charlie on that. I hate my opponents and I don’t wish them the best," Trump added.
At the end of his speech, the former President invited Erika back on stage and embraced her as the crowd erupted in cheers.
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Trump speaks behind bulletproof glass at the event. Photo: AFP
Charlie Kirk became popular among young people due to his fiery and direct debates with students, particularly liberals. He advocated for a nationalist, Christian-centered political ideology.
Kirk supported Christian conservative political values and frequently made controversial statements targeting minority groups, including transgender people, Muslims, African Americans, and others.
According to investigators, the suspect Robinson claimed he shot Kirk because the activist had "spread hatred." Robinson faces seven charges related to the fatal shooting and could face the death penalty.
