A teenager in Tukwila, Washington, claimed a Build-A-Bear employee refused to print the name of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk on her teddy bear’s birth certificate.
The incident occurred on September 26th at the South Center Mall, where 16-year-old Evie McCormick was making the bear with a friend. After finishing, she mentioned that the clerk would not write Kirk’s name, saying, “She didn’t agree with it. She didn’t support it and told me, ‘We’re not doing this.’
Kirk, a noted Christian and advocate for free speech, was tragically killed on September 10th during a lecture at Utah Valley University, sparking reactions from many, including both sorrow and controversy.
In response to the incident, a Build-A-Bear representative told King 5 that management is addressing the matter. McCormick, the teen involved, contacted the corporate office and received an apology.
Reportedly, the company plans to retrain its staff to maintain a neutral stance on political matters, particularly in the Seattle area. “They would retrain their workforce to keep politics out of the workplace,” the representative remarked.
Reflecting on Kirk, McCormick shared, “He was a role model” for many young people.
Following his murder, coffee shops in California supporting Kirk saw an influx of customers rallying behind his legacy, according to Breitbart News.
Kirk’s pastor and friend, Rob McCoy, expressed his grief, stating, “My friend Charlie Kirk was murdered today by a cowardly man. His life is remembered for many wonderful things.” He continued to honor Kirk’s legacy, asserting that “Charlie did not die, but instead he began to live in truth.” McCoy emphasized Kirk’s courage in facing threats without fear.
