This site displays photos of makeshift memorials that spontaneously arise after individuals are killed by violence in Oakland. Each site of a killing is photographed whether or not a memorial is found there....

Wednesday, January 2, 2008

Last post

Dear all-
I'm both saddened and relieved to say that I will not be continuing this project in 2008.
It has taken its toll on me in a number of ways, the worse being that I've caught myself feeling more sorry for the fact I had to go visit yet another homicide site than for the fact that another human life, dear to many, was lost.
As some of my readers have commented, this is one of the saddest consequences of these homicides: they become acceptable, routine, just an unfortunate ongoing phenomenon.
I so appreciate all those who have posted comments, reminding us that these victims were part of others' lives. All human life is inherently sacred and valuable, and any loss, especially by violence, is unbearably tragic.
Here's wishing 2008 sees us being more committed to addressing the issues that create the environment where such violence occurs.
Best,
Nic B