The Westminster City Council has voted to honor the memory of conservative activist Charlie Kirk by partially renaming a street and designating a day in his honor. This decision comes after Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA, was fatally shot in Utah in September 2023 at the age of 31. The council voted 4-1 to rename a section of All American Way, which runs parallel to the Vietnam War Memorial at Sid Goldstein Freedom Park.
The council’s decision includes placing Kirk’s name below the official street sign in 3-inch font, a move expected to cost approximately $3,000, according to a city staff report. The small street is situated near City Hall and serves as a reminder of the community’s values.
Local Leaders Discuss Kirk’s Legacy
Mayor Chi Charlie Nguyen, a Republican running for Congress next year, advocated for the change, stating that Kirk embodies the values that make Westminster special, including pride in the country and civic engagement. Councilmember Amy Phan West praised Kirk as a champion of free speech and an “American patriot.” West criticized the decision to use a small font for Kirk’s name, calling it an inadequate tribute.
West also introduced a separate proposal to designate October 14, Kirk’s birthday, as Charlie Kirk Day in the city, which was approved by the council. “His commitment to protecting the principle of open dialogue and opposing tyranny has had a significant impact on our nation’s conversation,” she remarked.
Opposition and Community Reaction
The only dissenting vote came from Vice Mayor Carlos Manzo, the sole Democrat on the council. Manzo argued that naming a street after Kirk was inappropriate, as he had no ties to Westminster. He accused his colleagues of exploiting Kirk’s death for political gain. “You’re going to campaign with it and say, ‘Look, I got this done in my city,’” he stated, expressing concern that the council was shifting the focus from local fiscal challenges to national political debates.
Manzo’s sentiments resonated with some residents who spoke at the meeting, echoing his concerns about prioritizing local issues over national controversies.
The decision to honor Kirk has sparked discussions beyond Westminster. In nearby Villa Park, a high school teacher reportedly removed a memorial to Kirk established by students. In Huntington Beach, another city in Orange County, a September memorial for Kirk drew attention when a group was seen chanting provocative slogans.
This decision by the Westminster City Council highlights the ongoing cultural and political debates surrounding figures like Kirk, whose influence and legacy continue to resonate across various communities. As the city prepares to implement these honors, the community remains engaged in discussions about the implications of such actions and their significance in local and national contexts.
