.png)
Rep. Gerdes joins community in call to carry forward late activist’s legacy
SMITHVILLE — Candles and calls to action marked a Smithville memorial last month, where hundreds gathered to remember conservative activist Charlie Kirk in what local leaders described as a spiritual battle between good and evil.
Nearly 300 community members attended the Sept. 21 event, including state Rep. Stan Gerdes, a Smithville resident. Gerdes spoke on Kirk’s courage, commitment to civic engagement and influence among a generation of young conservatives.
“The turnout in Smithville to honor Charlie Kirk showed the strength of faith and conviction in Bastrop County,” Gerdes said. “Charlie challenged us to think, to speak and, most importantly, to act — and that spirit was evident throughout the evening.”
Gerdes told the Courier the memorial was peaceful and reflective. The event featured prayers and remarks on Kirk’s national role as a conservative figure.
“What stood out most was the courage and hope expressed, even in grief,” Gerdes said.
Organizers said the memorial served not only as a moment of mourning, but as a call to action. Gerdes echoed that sentiment, urging residents to carry forward Kirk’s legacy through community and civic involvement.
Kirk, founder of the conservative organization Turning Point USA, was shot and killed Sept. 10 while delivering a speech at Utah Valley University during his “American Comeback Tour.” Since his death, Turning Point USA has reported receiving more than 120,000 inquiries from people interested in starting new campus chapters.
“What stood out most was the courage and hope expressed, even in grief.”
— Rep. Stan Gerdes
