Kramo was 23 years old. He had two daughters and a son. On December 1, 2000, Kramo was walking from a friend’s house when he was approached by eight men. Words were exchanged and they jumped him and stabbed him. Kramo managed to get away and made it home. He was hospitalized for his wounds. We thought that he was going to survive but he went into cardiac arrest nine days later with his two year old son present. He passed away on December 10. Before his passing I think that he knew he was going to leave us. He told me I was a wonderful mother and I told him he was a fine son and that I loved him very much.

Since I’ve been on this journey, I have been given the opportunity to participate in the Healing and Encouragement/Survivor of Homicide Ministry at my church. I have been a voice and advocate for families that have lost their love ones from homicide since May 2005. For eleven years, I have been involved with my church’s Victims of Homicide Awareness Month from November 20th to December 20th each year. This time of awareness is recognized across the state.

I became a member of Mothers for Justice and Equality for justice for those gone from homicide and for justice and equality for those that are alive. I regularly attend Monthly Empowerment Meetings and spoke about MJE’s mission at a gathering at a foundation. Because Kramo was killed by knife violence, I decided to try to do something about it. I researched the availability of knives in our neighborhoods and testified before the Boston City Council about how easy it is for even young children to buy knives. My work helped to pass the City of Boston Knife Ordinance. I will continue this journey to keep the memory of my child alive and for justice and equality for all.