(RepublicanDaily.org) – Violent crime remains a major problem in communities across the United States. The situation reached a peak last summer in the wake of George Floyd’s death, but the problem has not gone away. One Texas community has a novel way of honoring violent crime victims this holiday season.
At Christmas, members of the Central Christian Church in Downtown Austin decorate trees inside the church with angel ornaments bearing the names of loved ones who lost their lives to violent crime. Dozens of people put ornaments on them in honor of deceased family members and friends this year.
This tradition has been ongoing for over three decades now. However, in light of all the difficulties our nation has faced since the spring of last year, it now has a renewed poignancy for many people.
Last night, we attended the annual Tree of Angels event in downtown Austin, honoring victims of violent crime. I hung this ornament in honor of Officer Amy Donovan (EOW 10/31/04). God bless you and your family, Amy, you are never forgotten. pic.twitter.com/fn1LcmvnUT
— Joseph Chacon 👮🏻♂️ (@Chief_Chacon) December 6, 2018
One of the churchgoers to place an angel on the tree this year was Betty Alcala. She lost her nephew Alejandro, who was just 22 years old, to murder this year. She said her nephew was a cheerful person who loved chocolate.
Let’s hope that communities across America can take note of tragedies like this one and work to forge a more peaceful future for everyone.
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