On Sep. 16 at 6 p.m., the University of Arizona chapter of the Turning Point USA organization hosted a celebration of life for Charlie Kirk. Crowds of mourners — both university students and Tucson residents — joined together at the Bear Down Gym to remember Kirk.

The entrance was lined with metal detectors scanning every person who walked in. Inside, guests were met with a table lined with candles and pictures of Kirk — along with stickers and posters saying “Cut Taxes Not Trees,” “Make Hunting Traditional Again” and “IRS is really stealing.” 

Volunteers threw “Make America Great Again” hats to the crowds with Turning Point branding on the side. The term “turning point” was also brought up multiple times throughout the night, referring to a change in younger generations and their views on faith and conservatism. 

“We pray for the Turning Point USA that it may continue to be the beacon of light in this world […],” Jasher Kenerson, an 18-year-old who has been a fan of Kirk since she was 15, said.

Other speakers included Ashley Mendola and Neave Rojas, president and vice president of TPUSA of University of Arizona, media correspondent for TPUSA Joey Vantis and preacher Ross Johnston who appeared at the UA Mall the day before for a prayer service.

One of the most common points brought up in the night was a common phrase by Kirk: “I want to be remembered for courage, for my faith.” It was a theme throughout the night, remembering the religious background he brought into his debates. 

Speakers consistently referenced this quote. “What we are looking at today and this world is fruit that is produced from a man who gave his life to Jesus Christ […]. His foundational component of his entire life was based on Jesus Christ,” Vantis said.

The event ended in prayer with Johnston huddling down in the front with guests praying, with the theme of surrendering themselves to Jesus.

“It’s up to us as Christians, as young conservatives. If you’re a conservative, go to church, know Jesus and know what he preaches,” one student said as the event came to a close.