In Tukwila, Washington, a teenage girl's attempt to pay tribute to a conservative icon at a local Build-A-Bear Workshop encountered an unexpected obstacle. On a recent visit to the store, Evi McCormick, 16, intended to honor Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, who was tragically assassinated on September 10 at Utah Valley University. The situation unfolded when Evi filled out the "birth certificate" for her newly crafted teddy bear, choosing to name it "Charlie Kirk." According to Evi, a store employee interceded, tearing up the certificate and stating, "We're not doing this."
Evi recounted the experience to KING5, expressing her dismay at the employee's refusal, which she perceived as an act of hate towards Kirk's supporters. In the aftermath, she chose to leave the store, handing her credit card to a friend to complete the purchase. Following the event, Evi took to social media, sharing a photo of the bear dressed in a suit and red tie, alongside audio of Kirk speaking. The refusal attracted attention amidst the ongoing national controversy surrounding Kirk's assassination.
Reactions to Kirk's death have seen varied professional consequences for individuals and organizations, including a Kansas professor placed on leave for online comments about the incident, as reported by the Daily Mail. For Evi, the refusal at Build-A-Bear was a jarring encounter that left her "appalled" and resolute in her decision to not return to the store. Amber McCormick, Evi's mother, reached out to Build-A-Bear's corporate office, which responded with a $20 gift card and an apology, assuring that steps would be taken to prevent similar situations.
The refusal at Build-A-Bear is emblematic of how Kirk's death and his legacy continue to stir public debate and influence everyday interactions. Many young conservatives view Kirk as a role model, and the incident involving McCormick underscores the extent to which political divisions can permeate commercial environments. While Build-A-Bear has offered an apology and a modest compensation, it has not provided further comments.
The incident, which has since gained traction online with many expressing outrage, underscores the delicate balance between politics, personal expression, and the customer experience in commercial settings. The event has contributed to the broader narrative of how supporters of Kirk are facing backlash while publicly mourning his loss. The refusal to honor a customer's request at a Build-A-Bear workshop illustrates the intensified political climate following Kirk's assassination and the reactions it has elicited across various sectors of society.
