Oklahoma Lawmaker Files Bill Mandating Charlie Kirk Memorial Plazas at Public Universities

Oklahoma State Senator Shane Jett, leading the Oklahoma Freedom Caucus, has introduced multiple pieces of legislation to honor conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was fatally shot in 2025. Senate Bill 1187 mandates that every public university in Oklahoma establish a "Charlie Kirk Memorial Plaza" featuring a statue of Kirk—either sitting at a table with an empty seat or standing with his wife and children—along with permanent signage commemorating his legacy as a free speech advocate and modern civil rights leader. The bill also includes provisions to deter vandalism of the memorials by imposing fines and expulsion or termination for offenders. Additional legislation includes Senate Bill 1188, which designates Kirk's birthday as "Charlie Kirk Free Speech Day," and a resolution honoring him as a martyr for truth, faith, and the First Amendment. These proposals have garnered support from other Republican lawmakers and student organizations like Turning Point USA, emphasizing Kirk's role in promoting free speech and open dialogue on college campuses. Funding for the memorial plazas may come from donations, including public and private sources, with possible state matching funds to support their development and maintenance.