“This is a peaceful event for anyone to attend,” said organizer Tori Hett. “We are not doing this to cause strife. This is simply us honoring the impact that Charlie Kirk had on so many. He had unwavering faith and passion for our God and country.”

Kirk, 31, a conservative activist, died Wednesday, Sept. 10, after he was fatally shot while speaking at a campus event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah.

The Minot walk began at the Town and Country Center at 10 a.m. Participants made their way south on Broadway, looping by McDonald’s restaurant and around the post office. The group then returned north on Broadway, passed Town and Country Center and crossed at the light before continuing to Scandinavian Heritage Park, where a vigil and group photo closed the event. Organizers said the route was kept short to accommodate children and older adults.

Hett had encouraged people of all backgrounds to participate.

Wendy Harper/MDN People walk along South Broadway, holding signs and flags during the Charlie KIrk Memorial Walk and Stand in Minot on Saturday, Sept. 20.

“We are encouraging anyone and everyone to come out, if not for Charlie, for the words of faith he spread for our Lord,” Hett said.

She added that Kirk’s message would live on.

“Just because he is now gone, his message will not come to an end,” she said.

A prayer was held before and after the walk, and attendees were invited to take part if comfortable. Prior to the walk, Hett asked participants to wear appropriate walking shoes and suggested red, white or blue clothing. Flags, signs and flowers were welcomed.

Even with the event focused on peace, Hett said she received threatening messages beforehand from people who disliked Kirk.

Despite those concerns, the event proceeded without disruption. Cars driving by honked and waved in support as participants walked the route.