Erika Kirk, widow of Charlie Kirk, created a poignant moment at his memorial in Glendale, Arizona, on September 21, 2025.

Standing beside President Donald Trump, Erika embraced him, then faced a large photo of Charlie and raised her hand in the American Sign

Language gesture for “I love you” — thumb, index, and pinky extended. The crowd cheered, and videos of the tribute

spread across social media, prompting viewers to ask about its meaning. The gesture was later

explained as a silent, loving message to her late husband, adding a deeply personal layer to the ceremony.

Before the service, Erika spoke publicly for the first time since Charlie’s death, thanking first responders,

officials, supporters, and leaders such as President Trump and Vice President JD Vance for their support.

She described Charlie’s devotion to family and to Turning Point USA, pledging to carry on his work and mentioning

their young daughter, Gigi, who has been asking about her father. In earlier days of mourning, Erika was comforted

in public by Usha Vance, a moment widely shared online. Erika’s gesture and words underscored love, memory,

and resilience amid profound loss. Her quiet tribute resonated deeply with mourners across the political divide nationwide.