At a memorial at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona,

Erika Kirk raised her hand at the microphone and signed “I love you”

in American Sign Language. The gesture — thumb, index finger,

and pinky extended while the middle and ring fingers touch the palm

— is the standard ASL expression of love and connection, a

formation explained by Lingvano. Many attendees understood the motion

as a personal, silent tribute to her late husband and a moment

of intimate mourning. However, some online viewers misinterpreted

the sign, prompting confusion and incorrect claims about its meaning.

Members of the Deaf community and informed observers clarified

the symbol’s intent, pointing out the key distinction between

ASL’s “I love you” and a lookalike concert or cultural hand sign:

the ASL version includes the extended thumb, whereas the other

gesture typically does not. Erika’s deliberate use of sign language

added a quiet, accessible message to the program, communicating

love and remembrance without words. In the wake of the memorial,

supporters emphasized that gestures can carry profound meaning,

especially when they bridge spoken language and grief.

Erika’s sign was widely seen as a sincere, respectful tribute

that honored memory, offering comfort to all those present.