In Richmond, Virginia, a special Holiday Remembrance Memorial brought together families and friends of homicide victims to honor their loved ones and find comfort in each other’s support.
The event, held by the Richmond Homicide Support Group on Wednesday, Dec. 4, took place at the Richmond Police Academy.
The vigil was a heartfelt gathering where attendees remembered victims by reading their names aloud and displaying their photos on a projector screen. Emotions ran high as community members stood together, hugging and offering comfort.
“I pray for the day we no longer have to do this,” said a speaker from the Richmond Victim/Witness Services Program, addressing the crowd.
A Mother’s Story of Resilience
Vakisha Smith, the event’s guest speaker, shared the heartbreaking story of losing her daughter to murder in June 2018. She described how devastating it was to continue living after such a loss but reminded herself of her other daughter who still needed her.
I wanted to give up on life — but my family, friends, and faith kept me going, Smith said. She encouraged others to find strength in remembering their loved ones and turning to their community for support.
Always remember, your loved one is with you, and God is with you too. You’re not alone,” she concluded, offering words of hope and solidarity.
The Importance of Support
Esther Marshall, with the Richmond Homicide Support Group, emphasized the importance of having a safe space for those affected by violence. The group, founded between 2007 and 2008, offers a place where individuals can share their pain and connect with others who understand their struggles.
“After everything — the funeral, the burial — there’s still a void,” Marshall explained. “People need someone to talk to, and this group fills that need.
The support group meets on the first Wednesday of each month at a facility provided by the Richmond Police Department, which also supplies meals and other resources.