A businessman who owns a Steak ‘n Shake in Rome, Georgia, is honoring the late free speech champion and Turning Point USA Founder Charlie Kirk in a big way, and people are taking notice.
Wayne Robinson, president of Wayne Robinson Holdings, told Fox News that on September 11, the day after Kirk was assassinated, he and a marketing partner put up a massive billboard to honor the conservative, the outlet reported on Friday.
The billboard reads, “Charlie Kirk, 1993-2025. Stand up, speak out, stay bold” and features a picture of Kirk holding a microphone.
Kirk was fatally shot during a speaking event at Utah Valley University on September 10. His tragic assassination sparked a huge movement across the nation and the world as people gathered to pray and honor his legacy of having civil debates to prioritize truth and also to talk about God.
In his remarks to Fox, Robinson said, “I’ve always been a follower of Charlie,” adding that “He was bringing so many of those young people to Christ. … He touched me, and when the assassination happened, it was something that really wore heavy on me.”
Robinson said locals have responded to the billboard in a huge way, with many people from outside of town saying they planned to drive in to eat at the restaurant as a way to show solidarity and remember Kirk. He also said numerous people from other states called the store to express their gratitude for the bold billboard.
The restaurant chain’s corporate office told him that normally he was supposed to receive the go-ahead for such a billboard bearing the restaurant’s name. However, Robinson said, “It reached [the Steak ‘n Shake owner], and he liked it so much he asked if they could have permission … to do this across the nation.”
In a social media post the day after Kirk was killed, Steak ‘n Shake said, “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Charlie Kirk. He was a devoted husband and father, a powerful voice for freedom, and a courageous patriot.”
“His commitment to elevating public discourse and championing free speech and debate inspired millions around the world. He was a great American who will be profoundly missed. Our hearts are with his family and loved ones,” the restaurant chain said.
During his interview with Fox, Robinson also said Kirk started a much-needed revival in America.
He added, “I don’t think he would have ever thought, in his wildest dreams, the response that would have taken place after he was assassinated. But the movement is great … and I just appreciate all that he did.”
