Westminster leaders declared October 14 as Charlie Kirk Day earlier this month, honoring the controversial political commentator with his own annual recognition and adding his name to a slate of street signs on All American Way. 

Kirk was the co-founder of Turning Point USA, a nonprofit aimed at advocating for conservative policies at high school campuses and universities until his shooting death on Sept. 10. 

As part of Westminster’s resolution declaring Charlie Kirk Day, city council members encouraged people to observe the day by getting civically involved. 

“The City encourages its residents, schools, and community organizations to observe this day with appropriate educational programs and civic activities that celebrate the principles of free speech, and civic involvement exemplified by Charlie Kirk,” reads the city’s statement honoring him.

Councilman Carlos Manzo, the only one on the dais to vote against both proposals, said the move basically created campaign materials for council members.

“You guys continue to try and outdo each other here on this dais,” Manzo said. “You have no respect for the position we have here.” 

Resident Terry Rains echoed similar remarks.

“Charlie Kirk was a right wing religious activist who did nothing to benefit this city,” she said in her comments to city leaders. “Stop the campaign bullshit.” 

Most of the roughly two dozen speakers at the meeting asked city leaders not to move forward with recognizing Kirk, pointing to his controversial comments over the years and saying the city council is intended to be non-partisan. 

“No one ever should be harmed for their opinions or affiliations. But mourning death is not the same as memorializing a legacy,” said commenter Donald Lane at the meeting. “While we can express sympathy for Mr. Kirk’s family, official city honors should reflect Westminster’s collective values.” 

Councilwoman Amy Phan West, who’s been an outspoken supporter of Kirk’s and regularly posts old photos of the two together, says the measures fell short of fully honoring him. 

She specifically called out the street sign designation, saying that if they really wanted to honor Kirk they would rename All American Way instead of just adding his name below it. 

“We should do it like All American Charlie Kirk Way in one big sign,” Phan West said. “You either go big or go home dude.” 

Mayor Charlie Nguyen, who put the street sign item forward, said he didn’t care if Kirk was a Republican or Democrat, but that he spoke out for “the values we all share.” 

Noah Biesiada is a Voice of OC reporter. Contact him at nbiesiada@voiceofoc.org.