Penn College Republicans react to murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk
PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Members of the University of Pennsylvania College Republicans are speaking out following the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
The group had been preparing to host Kirk on the Philadelphia campus this semester. News of his death broke as they were organizing a 9/11 memorial.
One member from Utah had a sibling at the event and was following real-time updates as the tragedy unfolded.
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"He had a big appeal for a lot of people - whether they agreed with his beliefs or not - he was open to discussion and challenged young people," said Sunya Afrasiavi, political director of Penn College Republicans and a sophomore.
Kirk founded Turning Point USA at age 18 and quickly rose to prominence as a leading voice in GOP youth outreach. He expanded the organization's presence on college campuses and launched a popular podcast. His messaging, however, often drew controversy.
"Nearly every university he went to drew a big crowd," Afrasiavi said.
William Pallan, finance director of the group and a Penn junior, said Kirk's approach to campus engagement was direct and inclusive.
"He sets up a tent on college campuses and says, 'Talk to me about any issue,'" Pallan said. "It was going to be something like that on Penn's campus this semester."
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Despite criticism from some quarters, Pallan said Kirk wasn't seen as divisive by many students.
"I don't think he's a divisive figure, a polarizing figure," he said.
In the wake of Kirk's death, the group reported a surge in membership applications and a renewed sense of unity.
"We're living in a time where both sides aren't coming together," Pallan said. "I think that pushes more people to the right."
Afrasiavi added that the moment should serve as a call to action.
"I think this should be a call not just for people on this campus, but to really go out and speak their beliefs," she said. "I don't think they should be frightened."
