Night of light and remembrance for Charlie Kirk

A sombre but united crowd of residents attended an event in Fort St. John’s Centennial Park on Friday to honour and remember Charlie Kirk whose life and tragic passing has resonated with so many around the world.

Photos by Amber McGill

Several people who attended spoke about a personal connection to his message and wanted to pay respects to someone who had influenced how they viewed politics and society.  The turnout at the event is a reminder of the ways that ideas can cross borders and reach places that one might not have even visited.

“It was deeply touching to see so many people coming together in the spirit of the values that Charlie passionately stood for,” said Amber McGill, who was at the event.  “I can safely say that this was a time of great pride for us.  Change starts with us, and together we are that change.  May Charlie rest in peace, knowing that his vision and beliefs will live on through us.”

Attendees noted how he was a force that made many feel seen and provoked thought or discussion or served to inspire people thousands of kilometers away. At a time when much of politics can seem distant, the work of Charlie Kirk seemed to resonate in a way that was personally felt by people in our own community.

“We should just all try and put our race, weird differences, and ways of life aside for the greater good of Canada,” said Tell Meier, one of the event’s organizers. “The more we can come together and the less we divide at a time like this shows that we can have civil debate and gatherings without the chance of violence. The coming together of people is what we need to drive home to everybody. I love this country, and we need to keep prosperity going and the jobs rolling to better our economy. Invest in our country and keep our tax dollars where they need to be!”

The evening was a reminder that legacies can live on beyond a place, and in anyone who feels the impact of a person’s words and ideas.