The National Civic League strongly condemns the murder of Charlie Kirk. While details of the attack remain unclear, one fact is not: violence has no place in our democracy.
Political violence, regardless of the target, motive, or ideology, erodes trust, undermines civic participation, and threatens the safety of every community. In a healthy democracy, ideas are contested with ballots, debate, and dialogue, never with bullets.
Our hearts are with Mr. Kirk’s family, the students and staff of Utah Valley University, and all those affected by this horrific act. We stand in solidarity with communities across the nation who deserve to live, learn, worship, and engage in civic life without fear.
Now more than ever, leaders of every political persuasion, at every level (and citizens in every community) must reject divisive rhetoric and recommit to resolving differences through peaceable means. The path ahead may be difficult, but the choice is clear: unity over hate, democracy over violence.
