Organ Mountain News report

LAS CRUCES - Community and youth groups will hold a public vigil Friday evening at Plaza de Las Cruces to honor the victims of the March 21 mass shooting at Young Park, where three people were killed and 15 others were wounded.

The “Youth Voices for Peace Vigil” is scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. and will feature remarks from youth and faith leaders. Organizers say the gathering is intended to provide space for healing, not political messaging.

“I hope that this will help to bring the community together, along with giving some comfort to those directly impacted by this tragedy,” said Christina Hernandez, a Las Cruces parent. “The community needs to band together and encourage support and healing. More hate and violence on top of what’s already happened isn’t the answer.”

Some organizers said they were motivated to respond to what they described as misdirected blame on victims in the days following the shooting. They hope the in-person event will serve as a positive alternative to online division.

“A car community is meant to bring others together to connect, socialize and make friends. That night’s tragic events were not what the car meets are about,” said Jay, a local youth. “I will do everything in my power to help, and to connect everyone together so that we can change as a community.”

Friday’s event is being organized by NM Comunidades en Acción y de Fe (CAFe), Inspirational Ministries, Holy Cross Retreat Center and the Black Student Association at New Mexico State University.

There will be a police presence at the plaza to ensure public safety. Community resources will also be available to attendees.

Details:
What: Youth Voices for Peace Vigil
When: Friday, March 28, 6–7:30 p.m.
Where: Plaza de Las Cruces, 100 N. Main St., Las Cruces

For more information, visit Organ Mountain News coverage of the Young Park shooting.