Sonya Massey on Day of Mourning

Nationwide vigils were held in honor of Sonya Massey, a 36-year-old mother shot and killed by a police deputy in her Illinois home after calling 911 for help. The incident, which occurred on July 6th, has sparked widespread outrage, with calls for justice and an end to police violence. Activists and community leaders, including Congresswoman Summer Lee, joined memorials in cities like Pittsburgh and Cleveland, emphasizing the need for cultural change around law enforcement practices. The deputy involved has been fired and charged with multiple offenses, including first-degree murder, after an investigation deemed his use of deadly force unjustified. Activist groups like Until Freedom organized these events to raise awareness and solidarity for victims of police violence. Participants expressed their grief and determination to prevent further tragedies, reiterating the importance of not allowing such names to be forgotten.