FIU students gather to remember, grieve Charlie Kirk
Students at Florida International University gathered Thursday evening to grieve and support one another following the death of conservative political activist Charlie Kirk.
Many of those in attendance were current or former members of Turning Point USA, the conservative nonprofit organization Kirk founded. Some said they had met him personally and considered him a mentor.
"These last 24 hours I've just been completely devastated to see what's been going on and my heart dropped to my knees, you know?" said Ian Valdes, president of the Turning Point USA FIU chapter.
"I'm still trying to come to terms that this is real — that Charlie Kirk is not on earth anymore. It's honestly like I'm living in a nightmare," said Cristen Lameira, former president of the FIU chapter.
Remembering Kirk's faith and values
Students described Kirk as a figure who inspired them through his faith and principles.
"When you're around him, you just feel the presence of God and anyone that has known him will say the same thing — that God was working through him. He truly was a person who cared a lot about morals and about sticking to them and helping others see the truth," Lameira said.
"He was a man full of compassion, integrity, faith and just somebody that every young man could look up to. Somebody who is a firm believer in Jesus Christ," Valdes said.
FIU student Lester Tellez said Kirk's influence will continue through his followers.
"I believe that Charlie's mission was to inspire young Americans to live in a God-fearing society. I think that everybody including myself will carry on the mission of Turning Point USA from here on out," Tellez said.
Vigil planned on campus
Students said they are planning a campus vigil for Kirk on Monday. Details are still being finalized.