News Summary
The Lloyd Noble Center at the University of Oklahoma hosted a tribute event to honor the late Charlie Kirk, co-founder of Turning Point USA. Governor Kevin Stitt emphasized Kirkโs impact on youth while comedian Russell Brand shared his journey of faith and personal growth. The event took place amid heightened security, attracting over 6,000 attendees paying tribute to Kirkโs legacy and the conservative values he stood for. Prominent figures participated in celebrating Kirk’s life and promoting the mission of Turning Point USA.
Governor Stitt and Russell Brand Honor Late Turning Point USA Co-founder Charlie Kirk at OU Event Amid Heightened Security
On October 16, 2025, the Lloyd Noble Center at the University of Oklahoma was buzzing with energy as **Turning Point USA** hosted **This is The Turning Point Tour**. This high-profile event was particularly poignant, coming just over a month after the tragic shooting of **Charlie Kirk**, co-founder of Turning Point USA, during a campus event in Utah on September 10, 2025. The atmosphere was charged as speakers gathered to celebrate Kirk’s legacy while addressing a crowd that exceeded initial expectations.
High Demand and Heightened Security
Originally planned for the McCasland Fieldhouse, the event was moved to the much larger Lloyd Noble Center after selling out rapidly, attracting over **6,000 RSVPs**. Attendees were warmly welcomed but with a heightened sense of security; metal detectors were in place, and only essentials were allowed inside to ensure everyoneโs safety following Kirkโs assassination.
Governor Stitt Kicks Off the Tribute
Kicking off the evening, Oklahoma’s Governor **Kevin Stitt** took the stage to reflect on Charlie Kirk’s impact on young people and the importance of standing firm in one’s beliefs. He encouraged the audience to feel proud of their presence at the event, praising their commitment to promoting conservative values, a cause that was close to Kirk’s heart.
Stitt drew inspiration from biblical charactersโ**Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego**โwho bravely maintained their beliefs despite pressure. This parallel served to motivate young individuals to focus on their relationships that elevate their faith and aspirations. He emphasized the need for courage and faithfulness, likening it to the biblical stories of **Caleb and Joshua**, thereby encouraging attendees to pursue their dreams boldly.
Celebrating Charlie Kirk’s Birthday
Another notable moment was when **Savannah Chrisley**, the reality TV star, shared her experiences of facing backlash and reemphasized the value of prioritizing truth over popularity. She even led the crowd in a heartfelt rendition of “Happy Birthday” for Charlie Kirk, who would have celebrated his **32nd birthday** on October 14.
Russell Brand’s Journey of Faith and Redemption
On the lighter side, comedian **Russell Brand** captivated the audience with his personal story of faith and redemption. He opened up about the meaning he’s found through adversity and his past struggles with fame. Brand candidly discussed his current challenges, choosing to focus on personal growth and spiritual understanding rather than seeking judgment, making for a fulfilling and inspiring dialogue.
A Thought-Provoking Audience Interaction
As questions flowed from the audience, one inquiry about the separation of **church and state** prompted Brand to voice his opinions against such a divide. Despite the controversies surrounding his past, he emphasized the crucial role of faith in facing modern societal issues. The evening remained a blend of humor and reflection, all while honoring Kirkโs lasting impact on individuals committed to conservative values.
Safety and Community Commitment
Throughout the event, the cooperation of local law enforcement, including the *OU Police, Norman Police, and Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office,* ensured a secure environment for all participants. The **OU chapter of Turning Point USA** anticipated an impressive turnout, expecting between **7,000 and 8,000 attendees**. Thankfully, the evening went on without any reported altercations.
Conclusion: A Legacy to Uphold
With various attendees donning shirts and hats displaying support for Kirk, the event served not only as a tribute but also as a reaffirmation of Turning Point USA’s missionโa cause Charlie Kirk was deeply passionate about promoting.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- KOCO: Safety Measures for Turning Point USA Event
- OU Daily: Turning Point USA Event at Lloyd Noble
- Oklahoman: Turning Point USA at OU with Russell Brand
- KOCO: Turning Point USA Tour at OU
- Wikipedia: Turning Point USA
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