LOS ANGELES—A tree-lighting ceremony designed as “an evening of healing and reflection” will be held in South Los Angeles Sunday honoring the memory of children who were murder victims.
Sunday’s 5 p.m. ceremony at the sheriff’s South Los Angeles Station will be conducted by the organization Justice For Murdered Children (JFMC), in association with the sheriff’s department.
“During the ceremony, families will have the opportunity to hang personalized ornaments on a beautifully lit tree as a tribute to their loved ones,” JFMC said in a statement.
“The evening will also feature Christmas caroling, along with hot chocolate, coffee and cookies to foster a warm and supportive atmosphere.”
According to LaWanda Hawkins, one of the founders of JFMC, “This tree is a symbol of remembrance and unity. By coming together, we honor the memories of those we’ve lost while strengthening our bonds as a community.”
Hawkins helped found JFMC in 1996.
“LaWanda’s profound motivation came from the tragic loss of her own son, Reginald, who was murdered in December 1995,” according to the organization’s website.
“LaWanda, along with fellow parents in South Central Los Angeles who had also lost children to murder, recognized the unsettling reality that their cases were often going unresolved and their voices were marginalized within the criminal justice system. United by a shared desire for change, they founded JFMC to fill this void and bring support, justice, and a sense of community to families facing the aftermath of such profound loss.
“Through collaborative efforts and dedication, JFMC has evolved into a beacon of hope, advocacy, and empowerment for families impacted by murder,” the website went on.
“Our mission is to assist, empower, and educate families, bridge the gaps in the criminal justice system, advocate for victims’ rights, and work towards a future with reduced violence and enhanced support for affected communities.”
