CLAYTON — A symbolic St. Louis County Council resolution to honor conservative activist Charlie Kirk sparked bitter debate between St. Louis-area residents who view his legacy as hateful and those who believe he dedicated his life to free speech.

Republican Councilman Mark Harder's symbolic resolution calls on council members to recognize Kirk, who was killed in a shooting last week. The resolution honors Kirk's "life and legacy," and his commitment to "truth, freedom and constitutional principles," and "to faith, family and country." The resolution also asks council members to condemn the violence that ended Kirk's life.

Supporters of the resolution said at Tuesday night's meeting that the resolution is not an endorsement of Kirk's opinions, but rather a recognition of the right to

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