Supporters gather early at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, awaiting the memorial service honoring political activist Charlie Kirk.
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At dawn on Sunday, a steady stream of attendees began forming a line that stretched over a mile outside State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, to pay tribute to conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Many wore apparel emblazoned with slogans like “I am Charlie Kirk,” alongside “Make America Great Again” hats, while waving American flags. The crowd’s size was confirmed by local law enforcement, highlighting the significant turnout.
The memorial featured remarks from Kirk’s widow, Erika Kirk, who was recently appointed as the CEO of Turning Point USA, the organization Charlie founded in 2012 to engage young conservatives. The event drew prominent Republican figures, including former President Trump and Vice President Vance, who lauded Kirk’s efforts in mobilizing youth support for Trump’s political agenda.


An attendee sports a hat with the phrase “I am Charlie Kirk” while arriving at the memorial outside State Farm Stadium.
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Andrew Caballero-Reynolds/AFP via Getty Images

Guests take their seats early at the memorial service commemorating political activist Charlie Kirk.
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Early arrivals settle into their seats at the memorial service for Charlie Kirk.
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A prominent cross is brought into the venue ahead of the memorial service for Charlie Kirk.
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Patrick T. Fallon/AFP via Getty Images

Attendees bow their heads in prayer prior to the commencement of Charlie Kirk’s memorial.
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Charly Triballeau/AFP via Getty Images

A man proudly displays pins commemorating Charlie Kirk as attendees gather in the stadium stands.
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Eric Thayer/Getty Images

Supporters share moments of comfort and solidarity ahead of the memorial service.
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Ross D. Franklin/AP

A banner displays images of Charlie Kirk alongside his wife Erika, the newly appointed CEO of Turning Point USA.
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Charly Triballeau/AFP via Getty Images

Participants raise religious signs during the memorial service commemorating Charlie Kirk.
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Joe Raedle/Getty Images