CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WVDN) — A West Virginia lawmaker has introduced a resolution to designate Oct. 14 as a day of remembrance honoring conservative activist Charlie Kirk and the “principle of free speech.”
Delegate Chris Anders announced the filing of the resolution in a recent newsletter to constituents, proposing that the date—which coincides with Kirk’s birthday—be officially recognized as “Charlie Kirk & Free Speech Day of Remembrance.”
Anders, a Republican, said the move is intended to signal that West Virginia “unapologetically stands for free speech and moral courage.”
Kirk was the founder and president of Turning Point USA, a national non-profit organization that advocates for conservative values on high school and college campuses. Anders praised Kirk’s influence on younger generations, stating that the activist encouraged students to “stand up, think for themselves, and speak the truth” in the face of pressure to conform.
Reflecting on a personal encounter at a political conference, Anders described Kirk as an individual driven by a sincere belief in the power of ideas.
“What I remember most wasn’t politics or talking points,” Anders wrote. “It was the joy in his eyes for what he was doing. He truly believed that ideas matter, that truth matters, and that this country is worth fighting for.”
The resolution now awaits consideration by the House of Delegates. If adopted, it would establish the annual observance to highlight Kirk’s contributions to the national political discourse and reinforce the state’s commitment to First Amendment protections.
