Hundreds gathered at Marketplace Park in Valencia for a candlelight vigil honoring political activist Charlie Kirk, filling the evening with American flags, signs, and moments of prayer and emotion.
Ashley Stewart, a senior at Saugus High School and founder of the school’s Turning Point USA chapter, led the event.
“I would talk to him about my chapter at Saugus High School, and he made me feel like I was important,” Stewart said. “He always reassured me that I’m doing God’s work by fighting his fight.”
Stewart said Kirk’s faith and honesty influenced her leadership.
“He was so firm in his faith, and he knew that family and faith come first. That was inspiring to me and makes me strive to be a better leader,” said Stewart.
People attending the vigil say Kirk also inspired them.
“He always said, ‘You’re more than just your heritage.’ We’re all human beings on the same level. If someone else could do it, I could do it too. My color doesn’t define me,” said Rosemary, a vigil attendee inspired by Kirk’s words.
In the wake of Kirk’s death, Stewart vowed to continue his mission.
“Turning Point USA is in hopes to restore America and bring faith back. And that was Charlie’s main fight, and we’re going to continue,” said Stuart.
Each candle at the vigil was described as a beacon of hope..
“It’s been a rough few weeks to say the least, but the amount of hope and strength that’s come out of this is insane, and it’s absolutely incredible,” said Stuart.
