Anderson, South Carolina, September 17, 2025
News Summary
Vigils were held across Upstate South Carolina in memory of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, following his tragic assassination. Thousands gathered at the Anderson Civic Center and in Greenville to remember Kirk’s legacy and promote peaceful dialogue, with key speakers emphasizing civic engagement and support for his family. The events highlighted a community’s united response and included criticism of Clemson University’s handling of faculty comments regarding the incident.
Anderson, South Carolina – Vigils erupted across Upstate South Carolina on September 15, 2025, in remembrance of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was tragically killed during a speaking engagement at Utah Valley University. Organized by various Republican organizations, these events honored Kirk’s legacy and aimed to unite community members in a time of mourning. Thousands gathered at multiple locations to celebrate Kirk’s life and promote a message of peaceful dialogue and support for his family.
The main remembrance event took place at the Anderson Civic Center, hosted by the Anderson County GOP. Doors opened at 5:00 p.m., with the event starting at 5:45 p.m. Among the speakers was South Carolina’s Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette, who addressed attendees about 7:00 p.m. The event drew participation from groups like the Clemson College Republicans and conservative podcast host Graham Alexander, who reflected on the implications of Kirk’s murder on political discourse.
Meanwhile, another vigil organized by the conservative youth group Young Greenville also took place in Greenville on the same evening, running from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. at Jeff Lynch Appliance. This event similarly aimed to gather local and state politicians for an evening of prayer and worship while remembering Kirk’s influential role in fostering conservative values among the youth.
As attendees filled both events, they expressed a collective intent to promote civic engagement and encourage local political involvement inspired by Kirk’s impactful legacy. The vigils emphasized community strength, with participants praying for the nation and Kirk’s grieving family following the shocking news of his assassination.
The attendance at the Anderson Civic Center was significant, with estimates suggesting thousands of participants, indicating Kirk’s strong following and the shared sense of loss felt by many in the community. Organizers and fellow conservatives reacted strongly against Clemson University’s recent handling of staff comments regarding Kirk’s assassination, particularly in relation to the firing of one employee and the suspension of two professors for their statements. Criticism was directed toward the university’s policies on academic freedom and tenure, with some attendees calling for further action against faculty who celebrated Kirk’s death.
Lieutenant Governor Evette criticized the university’s response and advocated against tenure for professors, asserting that educational environments should reject hateful political discourse. The vigils served not only as a memorial for Kirk but also as a platform for discussing the broader implications of political speech and actions in educational institutions, reflecting Kirk’s far-reaching influence.
Throughout the evening, many expressed their desire for unity and peaceful communication in the political landscape, stating Kirk’s message would continue to inspire future generations of conservatives. As the vigils concluded, attendees left committed to honoring Kirk’s legacy through active participation in the political process at all levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Charlie Kirk?
Charlie Kirk was killed on September 10, 2025, while speaking at Utah Valley University.
Why are vigils being held in South Carolina?
Vigils are being held to honor and remember Charlie Kirk’s life and to unite community members after his tragic death.
What organizations are involved in the vigils?
Several Republican organizations have organized vigils, including the Anderson County GOP and Young Greenville.
What were the key messages at the vigils?
Attendees aimed to send messages of support for Kirk’s family and promote peaceful dialogue in the wake of his assassination.
How did attendees respond to Clemson University’s actions?
Many criticized Clemson University’s handling of comments made by faculty about Kirk’s assassination and called for further action against these faculty members.
Key Features of the Vigil Events
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date | September 15, 2025 |
| Main Location | Anderson Civic Center |
| Additional Location | Jeff Lynch Appliance, Greenville |
| Key Speaker | Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette |
| Purpose | To honor Charlie Kirk and promote peaceful dialogue |
| Estimated Attendance | Thousands |
| Community Response | Calls for action against faculty comments at Clemson University |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Right-Wing Activist Charlie Kirk Murdered, Suspect Arrested
Nationwide Vigils Held to Honor Charlie Kirk
Additional Resources
- WSPA: Young Greenville Holds Vigil for Charlie Kirk
- WYFF: Thousands Gather Across Upstate SC to Honor Charlie Kirk
- Fox Carolina: Community Prayer Vigil for Charlie Kirk
- Audacy: Upstate Vigil for Charlie Kirk
- Post and Courier: Clemson Social Media and Charlie Kirk Vigil
- Wikipedia: Charlie Kirk
- Google Search: Charlie Kirk News
- Google Scholar: Charlie Kirk
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Charlie Kirk
- Google News: Charlie Kirk
Author: STAFF HERE GREENVILLE
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