The echoes of a voice advocating for discourse, not violent confrontation, have been tragically silenced. Charlie Kirk’s life, dedicated to the principle of engaging in political discourse through debate and discussion rather than through violence, was brutally cut short, an outrageous violation of the very message he championed. This heinous act stands as a stark reminder that retaliatory acts of violence, no matter how deeply felt the grief or anger, should be condemned because they will perpetuate the cycle of destruction he sought to break. Especially those of us who differ with much of Charlie Kirk’s public stances should praise his non-violent approach and rejection of violence as a political option.

Even before this profound loss, due to credible death threats, Charlie Kirk’s wife made the agonizing decision to shield their children from public scrutiny by choosing to keep their names private. As of September 2025, their daughter, a beacon of innocent hope, will be three years old, while their son, a tender new life, will be one. The assertion that disagreement with someone’s thoughts warrants violence is a dangerous fallacy. Those who subscribe to such a belief should consider the profound and devastating impact it would have on innocent lives, such as the family of Charlie Kirk. My heart goes out to his wife, children family and loved ones.

TIM MANNELLO

Williamsport

Submitted by email