SANDPOINT — A proclamation of remembrance for a conservative, Christian activist has prompted discussion about how Bonner County will approach honoring the lives of local and public individuals who have led honorable lives before passing.  

Commissioner Ron Korn brought forth the action to designate Oct. 14, 2025, as a Bonner County Day of Remembrance for Charlie Kirk in an effort to condemn political violence and encourage community members to uphold American values and observe the day to promote civil engagement and principles of faith and liberty.  

The designated day of remembrance was approved unanimously by Bonner County commissioners and will only be applicable for Oct. 14, as opposed to the nationwide remembrance that honors Kirk annually. 

According to a memorandum, the proclamation condemns all forms of political violence, while extending condolences to Kirk’s widow and their two young children. The proclamation further honors Kirk’s prominent voice in America, defending the country’s foundation and the belief in life, liberty, limited government and individual responsibility.  

The document also acknowledges acts of violence for political beliefs — regardless of where an individual lies on the political spectrum — undermines the foundation of America’s constitutional democracy.  

“The tragic loss of Charlie Kirk must not be allowed to deepen the divides in our Nation, but instead serve as a turning point to commit ourselves better angels, and to the timeless American principles of liberty governed by truth and the virtues of peaceful dialogue,” reads the memorandum.  

While the overall reason for the day of remembrance wasn’t questioned by the board, Commissioner Asia Williams brought up the necessity for a process when it comes to remembering individuals at the county level. Williams further said that several community heroes had passed over the year, including two firefighters who were killed in the line of duty, that had not received an official day of remembrance.  

“Nothing changes that this was horribly wrong, and that, I would say the majority of people condemn what happened. It's just, what is our function of giving people days of remembrance ... How do we recognize local people as well?” said Williams.  

Commissioner Brian Domke further agreed with Korn’s action item, adding his full support of William’s idea for developing a process that would additionally honor community members for different acts of service.  

“I’m going to ignore any political uses it (proclamation) might have, in addition to and outside of what we’re saying,” said Domke. “I think in our own community, we’ve seen, at times, a lack of thoughtful, respectful engagement when we differ politically. ... I do support the overall intent of peaceful civil engagement.” 

Public comment regarding the proclamation was significantly in favor of approval, with one opposing individual who felt that the document was “blatant political pandering by the Bonner County Republican Central Committee and Korn.”  

Other comments favored the idea of a set procedure for remembrance days to include local individuals deserving recognition.  

Bonner County Clerk Michael Rosedale also made sentiments regarding the proclamation, saying that Kirk championed everything that the United States Constitution stood for.  

“I think somebody embodying our Constitution, holding up the principles — he knew it inside and out, into our founding fathers, inside and out, what they wrote, The Federalist Papers, inside and out — this is a little different. Everybody is worth something, and there's a loss anytime you lose anybody. This is a uniquely different circumstance,” said Rosedale.