We, the undersigned, are members of the UVU community (students, faculty, staff, and supporters) who mourn the violence that took place on our campus September 10th, 2025. We grieve the tragic death of Charlie Kirk, and we honor his family and all who were affected by this tragedy. Many of us were present that day, and we too are still healing from the trauma of what we witnessed. We believe no one should lose their life to gun violence, and we stand for safety, compassion, and free speech.  
Yet, as conversations arise about constructing a memorial in Kirk’s likeness on UVU’s campus, we must pause. To build a monument canonizing Charlie Kirk would misrepresent the values UVU stands for. UVU’s strength lies in diversity of thought and inclusion, not in elevating one polarizing figure above all others. We are not asking for erasure. What happened must not be forgotten. But remembrance should not take the form of a partisan monument. If UVU chooses to create a memorial, it should honor the principle of free speech or stand against gun violence, not canonize one figure whose views do not align with UVU’s mission.   
As per UVU’s mission statement, “UVU is committed to fostering an environment where individuals of all backgrounds and identities feel equally valued and included.” President Tuminez has invited all students to “come as you are — UVU is a place for you.”  
For that reason, it would not be appropriate for Ben Hammond’s interpretation of this tragedy to serve as UVU’s permanent statement. An artist already associated with Kirk and aligned with this partisan framing cannot represent the healing and inclusivity our campus deserves. Any memorial should instead be developed through a collaborative, campus-wide process that includes students, faculty, and the broader community, ensuring it reflects the values of all who call UVU home.  
We, the undersigned, call on UVU leadership to ensure that no statue is erected in Charlie Kirk's image on campus, and that no campus properties, including buildings, drives, or roads, are renamed after him.  
UVU belongs to everyone. Any memorial must reflect that truth.