Boston's Mother's Day Walk Honors Gun Violence Victims in 30th Year
Thousands of people walked three miles through Dorchester on Mother’s Day to honour victims of gun violence. The event marked the 30th anniversary of the annual walk, founded by Clementina Chery after her 15-year-old son, Louis, was killed in 1996. This year’s gathering also raised funds for a new healing centre in the community. The walk began in 1994 as a way for families to remember loved ones lost to shootings. Chery, who has spent decades supporting grieving mothers, called the turnout a powerful display of unity. She described the event as a testament to the strength of community bonds.
Boston Mayor Michelle Wu joined the march, calling it one of the city’s most significant annual events. The walk came just days after three shootings in Boston, including a fatal attack on Woolson Street in Mattapan. Participants like Drudys Ledbetter, who lost her brother to gun violence in 2019, found comfort in the shared experience. Many carried photos of victims and wore T-shirts with their names. The Louis D. Brown Peace Institute, which organised the walk, announced a $25 million campaign to build a centre for healing and education on Westville Street. Construction is set to begin this year, expanding the group’s support for families affected by violence.
The event raised money for the institute’s new facility while bringing together survivors and allies. Chery’s decades-long mission to turn grief into action continues with the planned healing centre. The walk remains a key moment for Boston’s push against gun violence each year.
