Riley Gaines, a former NCAA swimming star and prominent women’s rights advocate, praised Erika Kirk for her remarkable courage and grace during a memorial service for her late husband, Charlie Kirk. The service, held at the State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, drew an estimated 70,000 people, including members of the media, fans, and mourners from across the country. Kirk, a former athlete and conservative influencer, delivered an emotional and powerful speech that emphasized forgiveness, love, and the mission to guide young men struggling with purpose and faith.
In her speech, Kirk expressed her deep love for her husband, Charlie, and her commitment to the values he stood for. She recounted how Charlie, an influential figure in the conservative movement, wanted to reach out to young men who felt lost and without direction. She emphasized that his mission was to provide them with hope, purpose, and a sense of belonging through organizations like Turning Point USA. Her words resonated with the crowd, many of whom were moved by her unwavering strength and compassion in the wake of such a tragedy.
Kirk’s speech also included a powerful message of forgiveness for the alleged killer, Tyler Robinson, who was accused of assassinating her husband during an event at Utah Valley University. She stated that she forgave Robinson, saying that it was the message she believed Charlie would want her to convey. She urged the audience to remember that the answer to hate was love, and that forgiveness was a core value of the Christian faith. This sentiment was echoed by many attendees, including Riley Gaines, who praised Kirk for her bravery and strength during this difficult time.
Gaines, who has been a vocal advocate for women’s sports and empowerment, took to social media to share her admiration for Kirk’s speech. She described it as the most powerful she had ever heard, filled with love, strength, and compassion. In her post, she expressed her deep admiration for Kirk’s courage and her ability to speak so openly about her grief and her commitment to her husband’s mission. Her words highlighted the broader impact of Kirk’s speech, not only for the grieving family but also for the millions of people who followed her husband’s work.
The memorial service also featured several other speakers, including members of the football community and fans of the Arizona Cardinals, who had joined the event to show their support. The gathering was a testament to the lasting impact Charlie Kirk had on those who knew him and the wider community. As the sun set over Glendale, the event came to a close, leaving many with a renewed sense of hope and determination to carry on his legacy of compassion, faith, and service.