Slippery Rock holds anti-political violence vigil in wake of Kirk assassination
SLIPPERY ROCK — Dozens of people turned out Sunday, Sept. 14, at Slippery Rock’s massive American flag to pay homage to Charlie Kirk, the conservative activist assassinated during a speech in Utah on Wednesday.
“We're not just here to mourn this profound loss that the country is having to endure now, but to stand united in remembrance of a man and an organization who dedicated his life to the pillars of our great nation: freedom, faith, and family,” said Slippery Rock Mayor Jondavid Longo. “We're here not just so that we remember Charlie, but so we all stand here together in solidarity against political violence.”
Throughout Sunday night’s vigil, multiple members of Slippery Rock University’s chapter of Turning Point USA, the organization Kirk founded, spoke about how Kirk shaped their political views and their lives.
“Charlie Kirk means more to me than most people,” said Daniel Rodenbeck, event planner for the Slippery Rock chapter. “After watching his video, I'd aspired to not be afraid to have my opinion. … I will always be grateful for all the memories and messages from Charlie.”
Alex Thompson, president of the Slippery Rock chapter, got to meet Kirk in person three times — most recently at AmericaFest, held during the winter of 2024.
“The experience was kind of surreal,” Thompson said. “He was kind and genuine. He cared every single time I was talking to him, like I was his friend. He cared genuinely about who I was as a person.”
With the possibility that the vigil itself could become a target of violence, organizers took no chances with security. Longo said that he and his family have received “either direct or veiled death threats.” Multiple police departments — including the Pennsylvania State Police, Butler Sheriff’s Office, and Slippery Rock University police — were stationed around the park.
“We always try to make sure that we have ample security for events, because, of course, we want to keep our community members safe,” Longo said. “But because of the recent violent events, a number of police departments decided to step up to offer their services.”
The date and time of the vigil coincided with the expiration of President Donald Trump’s order to lower all flags nationwide to half-staff in the wake of Kirk’s death. At the stroke of 6 p.m., the massive flag was lifted back to its full height, as the song “Am I The Only One” by Aaron Lewis played over the loudspeakers.
Thompson said at least one silver lining could come out of the assassination.
“It could spark the younger generation to be just like him, to speak their mind and not be afraid of what they think,” Thompson said.
