On September 10, conservative activist Charlie Kirk was reported to have passed away, prompting an outpouring of tributes from supporters across social media. Many individuals began finding personal and symbolic ways to honor his memory in the days that followed.
One of the most notable trends emerged from a viral incident involving a Starbucks order. A customer attempted to order Kirk’s favorite drink—a Mint Majesty tea with two honeys—while requesting that the barista write “Charlie Kirk” on the cup. According to the video, the employee declined to use the full name, citing a store policy against political references, and instead offered to write just “Charlie.”
This seemingly small moment ignited a wider online response. Many supporters began repeating the same drink order and sharing photos or videos of their cups as a tribute to Kirk. The beverage quickly took on a symbolic meaning among followers, with some referring to it as a “Charlie Kirk” in his memory.
The trend has gained traction primarily on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram, where users are encouraging others to participate. Supporters describe the act as a peaceful, everyday way to keep Kirk’s legacy alive without engaging in overt political statements.
While some have questioned the appropriateness of involving businesses in tribute efforts, many participants view it as a personal expression of grief and remembrance. Starbucks has not issued a formal response regarding the trend, and reactions from employees have varied depending on location.
Overall, the tribute demonstrates how digital communities often transform small actions into meaningful rituals. By linking a favorite beverage with the memory of a public figure, supporters have found a shared and accessible way to express mourning, solidarity, and respect.