Deborah Wornum
Dorchester, MA
My youngest son, Aaron, was one month into his 25th year of life. Aaron left home on June 26, 2011, at 9:00 PM. At 9:20 PM, my life changed forever when Aaron was killed on the streets of Boston.
My son loved life to its fullest. Whatever he set his mind to do in life, he did his best to accomplish it. Aaron was loved by so many people. This was especially noted at his funeral. I never had so many adults come to me to let me know that my son taught them how to be a man. Aaron may only have been 25, but he definitely was more mature in his thinking. Aaron’s generosity with his love, kindness, and support for others made him a unique person.
Aaron was recognized by then Governor Mitt Romney and received the John and Abigail Adams Scholarship for MCAS Excellence for one of the highest MCAS scores in the State. He was awarded a full four-year scholarship to the University of Massachusetts in Boston. Aaron was a college student and musician whose future was stolen from him. He dreamed of opening a music company and helping underprivileged youth.
I am a surviving Mother on a Mission.
I believe in helping our fellow neighbors. I truly do believe that it takes a nation to raise our children. I joined Mothers for Justice and Equality because I believe in our mission. It is not OK to kill our children. I joined in the belief that together mothers can be the key to ending violence. I am proud to have been involved in the billboard designs that memorialize our children. I am proud to speak to foundations about MJE and to ask for their support. I am proud to stand up and ask questions when we have candidates at our Monthly Empowerment Meetings.
I will continue to be a voice for all the children like my son whose life was stolen. I am proud to be a member of MJE and to help carry out its mission of collective power to eliminate violence. Our children deserve it.