HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM) — A Pennsylvania State Senator is denouncing the recent honors being offered in memory of the recently assassinated conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

Earlier this week, on Wednesday, Sept. 10, the founder of Turning Point USA, Charlie Kirk, was assassinated during an event at Utah Valley University. He was 31 years old and left behind his wife and two young children.

Since this incident, Kirk has received numerous honors, such as being returned home to Arizona in Air Force Two by Vice President JD Vance, being promised the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Trump, and having US flags ordered at half-staff across the country.

In response, Pennsylvania State Senator Anthony Williams (D-Philadelphia) released a statement denouncing these recent honors, calling Kirk an “avowed racist,” adding that he “does not deserve to be honored as a hero.”

Sen. Williams’ full statement says the following:

“Why has the President of the United States ordered the state flag to be flown in honor of an avowed racist?

This decision is an insult to every American – especially to those of us who were the targets of his hatred throughout his political career. While it is undeniable that no one deserves to be murdered, and we do not celebrate violence, we must also be clear: he does not deserve to be honored as a hero. He was not one.

I say this not just for myself, but on behalf of my grandparents who served this country in uniform, my father who also wore the military uniform with pride, and my children who are growing up in a country that is deeply divided, not because they lack ability, but because of the color of their skin.

Honoring someone who spent his life promoting division and bigotry sends the wrong message. We must not conflate tragedy with heroism.”

This statement comes just hours after the Federal Bureau of Investigation announced that they identified and apprehended the suspect in Charlie Kirk’s assassination, 22-year-old Tyler Robinson.

Robinson is expected to be formally charged on Tuesday ahead of an initial court appearance.