RI Groups Urge Peaceful Discourse After Kirk Murder

PROVIDENCE, RI — Officials and political groups urged peaceful dialogue after conservative pundit Charlie Kirk was shot dead at Utah Valley University Sept. 10 answering a question about gun violence.

In a joint statement about Kirk’s murder, the Rhode Island Young Republicans and Young Democrats called for  a renewed commitment to civility, compassion, and respect.

”The tragic death of Charlie Kirk is a painful reminder that political violence has no place in our society. I stand next to the RI Young Democrats to send a clear message: we may disagree on policy, but we are united in our belief in the value of life, civil discourse, and mutual respect. Let us honor Charlie’s memory by working together to create a safer and more compassionate political culture,” said Ken Naylor, Chairman of the RI Young Republicans.

“We condemn all political violence as young leaders, Democratic, Republican, and Independent. We must take the mantle and make political nonviolence our pledge. We have to understand that when our dialogue becomes toxic it has unimaginable consequences as we have seen today. We are friends and neighbors first, and we need to treat each other as such. We send our deepest condolences to Charlie’s family and friends,” said Anthony Cherry, Vice President of RI Young Democrats of RI.

U.S. Senator Jack Reed also condemned the murder, initially expressing hope for his recovery before news of Kirk’s death was known, and that the shooter would face justice.

“You can disagree, debate, and demonstrate. But free speech is a Constitutional right.  Political violence is unacceptable and doesn’t solve disagreements. In fact, it undermines the very foundation of our democracy and only serves to sow division, hate, and fear.  Regardless of our differences, we must come together to condemn gun violence, reject political violence, and work to become a stronger community and more unified nation.”

RI Gov. Dan McKee announced that state and local flags, lowered to half-staff to remember the Sept. 11 2001 terrorist attacks, would remain lowered until Sunday to observe Kirk’s murder following  a proclamation from President Donald Trump.

“Political violence is never the answer. It’s never the way forward. And we must stand together in condemning it,” said McKee. “Susan and I are praying for Charlie’s wife, young children, and everyone mourning this horrific and heartbreaking tragedy.”