It’s OK To Be Angry Over Charlie Kirk’s Murder

It has been nearly three weeks since Charlie Kirk was shot and killed on a college campus in Utah, prompting a national conversation about grief, anger, and the cultural environment surrounding such violence. Kirk's widow, Erika, publicly forgave her husband's assassin during his memorial service, embodying a message of Christian charity. In contrast, some public figures, including country star Brantley Gilbert, have expressed their frustration over the perceived celebration of Kirk's death, calling it senseless.

The reaction to Kirk's murder has been polarized, with some individuals struggling to reconcile their anger with calls for forgiveness. Gilbert stated, "It’s senseless. I don’t understand it, and it p-sses me off," (Ocasio-Cortez House) reflecting a sentiment shared by many who feel outraged by the circumstances of Kirk's death.

The New Testament acknowledges that anger is a part of the human experience. In one instance, Jesus rebuked his disciples for wanting to punish a Samaritan village that rejected him, illustrating that anger must be tempered with justice. Conversely, when confronted by the Pharisees, Jesus did not shy away from expressing his anger, calling them a "brood of vipers" (Ocasio-Cortez House) and driving out moneychangers from the temple.

The distinction between righteous anger and sinful anger is a topic explored by St. Thomas Aquinas. He argued that anger can be justified when it seeks to uphold justice, provided it is regulated by reason. Aquinas noted that failing to feel anger in the face of injustice can itself be a moral failing.

In the wake of Kirk's assassination, many conservatives have channeled their anger into constructive actions. Vigils and memorials have been organized, contrasting sharply with the violent protests that followed the death of George Floyd in 2020. Additionally, Kirk's organization, Turning Point USA, has seen an influx of interest and donations, suggesting a mobilization of support in response to his death.

The political implications of Kirk's murder are also significant. Some Democrats and independents have expressed disillusionment with their party after witnessing reactions to Kirk's assassination, which may influence future electoral dynamics. A recent resolution condemning Kirk's murder saw a divided response among House Democrats, with many either opposing or abstaining from the vote.

As the nation processes this tragedy, the call for a reckoning resonates with many who seek justice without resorting to violence. The anger felt by Kirk's supporters may serve as a catalyst for change, fostering a renewed commitment to civic engagement and moral accountability.

Robert Busek, a Catholic homeschooling father and educator, reflects on these themes, emphasizing the importance of channeling anger into positive action while navigating the complexities of grief and forgiveness. He notes that while forgiveness may come in time, the current focus should remain on ensuring that justice prevails in the aftermath of such a senseless act of violence.