ELIZABETH CITY, N.C. (WAVY) — A growing public debate has emerged as two competing petitions — one to support and another to oppose the Charlie Kirk mural in North Carolina — continue to circulate in Elizabeth City, drawing strong reactions from residents.
The proposed mural, introduced by Steven Young, would honor Charlie Kirk, the conservative commentator and founder of Turning Point USA, who was shot and killed on September 10 while speaking at Utah Valley University. Young’s plan envisions the mural on East Colonial Avenue, featuring Kirk’s name in bold letters, a cross symbolizing his faith in Jesus Christ, and a QR code linking to Kirk’s speeches.
Young’s petition on Change.org has garnered over 1,100 signatures, with supporters describing Kirk as “a fearless champion of free speech, faith, and conservative values.” The project, estimated to cost between $10,000 and $20,000, would be funded through grassroots donations, crowdfunding, and support from Turning Point USA.
“Together, we can honor Charlie Kirk’s courage and ensure his legacy inspires generations in Elizabeth City,” the petition reads, urging the Elizabeth City Council to approve the mural during its October 27 meeting.
However, opposition has been equally vocal. A separate petition to oppose the Charlie Kirk mural in North Carolina has collected over 1,800 signatures, arguing that Kirk’s views are divisive and not representative of the city’s values.
Petitions Arise to Support and Oppose Charlie Kirk Mural
That petition states, “Kirk was an extremely divisive figure whose views primarily represent those of white Christian nationalists, with much of his rhetoric including viewpoints that are homophobic, sexist, and racist — qualities that have no business being represented in a public space in our city’s downtown.”
Critics also point out that the mural’s proposed location — adjacent to the Black Lives Matter mural — could be viewed as a political provocation. Opponents are calling for the artwork to be placed on private property instead of a public wall.
As the petitions gain traction, city officials have yet to include the proposal on the Elizabeth City Council’s official agenda, but the controversy has already sparked community-wide discussions about free expression, public art, and inclusivity in downtown spaces.
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Source: myfox8
Written by: Daniel Olafamoye, Greensboro NC News.
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