On Sunday, September 21, 2025, we came together at Aberdeen Neighborhood Park for a community memorial in honor of Charlie Kirk.

Despite challenges and criticisms along the way, the turnout and the spirit of the evening showed that Richmond residents are willing to gather peacefully, reflect deeply, and stand for the belief that no one should lose their life because of what they believe.

The music, the prayers, the quiet moments of silence, and the lights we lifted together reminded us that compassion and humanity are stronger than hate.

I want to sincerely thank every single person who attended, whether you came to pray, to sing, to reflect, or simply to observe. Your presence made this event meaningful.

Let’s carry forward the message we shared that night: to choose reflection over retaliation, dialogue over hatred, and humanity over dehumanization.

Thank you, Richmond, for standing together.