A solemn crowd of nearly 200 filled Madison Square Park to honor slain conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
Dozens of candles flickered by the reflecting pool as supporters raised American flags and bowed their heads before a towering black-and-white poster reading “Charles James Kirk, 1993–2025.”
Roses were placed on the pavement beneath the tribute.
The New York Young Republican Club organized the vigil, drawing members in suits and dark clothing who circled the memorial, snapping photos and recording speeches on their phones.
Republican mayoral candidate Curtis Sliwa, in his trademark red beret, joined the group, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the young conservatives.
The crowd broke into “Amazing Grace,” a video posted on X showed, as the candles glowed against the Manhattan skyline.
The memorial was one of several across New York and part of a wave of remembrance nationwide following Kirk’s assassination.
Kirk, 31, co-founded Turning Point USA and became a leading voice for young conservatives, amassing a massive following on social media before he was gunned down Wednesday during a Q&A session in Utah.
Friday’s Manhattan gathering capped a week of tributes, as leaders across the political spectrum urged Americans to reject violence in the wake of the shocking killing.
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