Goebel Farms, a pumpkin farm in Evansville, Indiana, designed a maze in the likeness of Turning Point USA Founder Charlie Kirk as a way to honor his legacy and commitment to free thinking and open dialogue.
“We chose to honor Charlie Kirk because he believed that disagreement should lead to conversation, not violence,” Goebel Farms stated about the legacy of Kirk. “He spent much of his life bringing political debate into public spaces, inviting people who opposed his views to challenge him and encouraging young people to examine important questions for themselves.”
Goebel Farms introduced its 2026 maze on September 2. Upon the announcement of the maze, the farm was quickly met with backlash for making its maze a memorial for Charlie Kirk.
“Our intention was not to suggest that everyone should share Charlie’s beliefs or agree with every statement he made. We recognize that he was a polarizing public figure and that many people strongly disagreed with his views and methods,” the farm said in response to criticism, according to 14 News.
Goebel Farms maintains it is an apolitical business and defends its decision to celebrate Kirk and promote the message that difference of opinion should not lead to violence.
“Goebel Farms is a family business, not a political organization. We welcome people with a wide range of political, religious and personal beliefs. We understand that some may disagree with our choice, and we respect their right to do so,” the farm noted. “Our hope remains simple: that Americans can speak openly, disagree honestly and challenge one another’s ideas without hatred or violence — and that our community can continue treating its members with dignity and respect.”
