Charlie Kirk Memorial Was Just Vandalized At University of North Carolina
A campus tribute to the slain conservative activist was defaced with transgender pride colors, and students were reportedly doused with paint during a solemn vigil.
A memorial to conservative activist Charlie Kirk at the University of North Carolina Wilmington was defaced with paint just hours after it was created by students. The tribute, organized by the university’s Turning Point USA chapter on September 15, was painted on the campus spirit rock to honour Kirk following his assassination last week. The memorial, which included Kirk's image and messages of remembrance, was vandalized overnight and during the day on September 16.
According to social media videos and eyewitness accounts, the defacement occurred in two parts. The first act of vandalism happened overnight, when the memorial was painted over with the colours of the transgender pride flag. A second incident, captured on video, showed individuals throwing paint on students who were holding a vigil and praying at the rock.
University officials have confirmed the vandalism. In a statement on September 16, they acknowledged they were reviewing the matter. The university affirmed its commitment to policies that support free expression while also condemning acts of harassment and violence. As of the statement, no arrests or disciplinary actions have been announced.
The incident at UNC Wilmington mirrors similar acts of vandalism and defacement of Kirk memorials that have been reported at various locations nationwide. The public acts of protest and defacement at a campus tribute have drawn attention to the escalating tensions surrounding political expression and grief on university grounds. The defacement of the memorial and the alleged harassment of students at the vigil have become a central point of discussion online and among campus communities.