Memphis, December 2, 2025
At the annual ‘Season of Remembrance’ event in Memphis, families of homicide victims gathered to honor their loved ones and seek justice. The ceremony, held at the University of Memphis, emphasized community support and involvement in addressing the ongoing issue of gun violence. Attendees placed commemorative ornaments on memorial wreaths, highlighting personal stories of loss and the pursuit of justice. Local initiatives led by the District Attorney aim to provide resources and healing for affected families amidst rising gun violence in the community.
Memphis, Tennessee
Families of Slain Gun Violence Victims Seek Justice at ‘Season of Remembrance’ Event
On December 1, 2025, families who lost loved ones to homicide gathered at the Michael D. Rose Theater on the University of Memphis campus for the Shelby County District Attorneyโs Office’s 15th annual “Season of Remembrance” event. This ceremony provided a vital space for victims’ families to honor their loved ones while seeking justice in a community striving to address the pervasive issue of gun violence.
Encouraging local participation and leadership, the event exemplifies how grassroots initiatives can foster a sense of solidarity among residents. By emphasizing community involvement over bureaucratic red tape, the organizing bodies are making strides in supporting those most affected by violence in Memphis.
Event Details
- Date: December 1, 2025
- Location: Michael D. Rose Theater, University of Memphis
- Reception: 5:30 p.m.
- Ceremony Start: 6:00 p.m.
- Parking: Free parking available in the Zach-Curlin Garage adjacent to the theater
Family Tributes
During the ceremony, families placed commemorative ornaments on memorial wreaths, each representing a life lost to violence. Personal stories shared by attendees highlighted the emotional toll of unresolved cases. For instance, one mother voiced her frustration regarding the progress of her son’s case, while another expressed concerns about the continuous absence of justice for her daughterโs killer. Such testimonies underscore the ongoing struggles families face long after losing a loved one to violence.
District Attorney’s Commitment
District Attorney Steve Mulroy reaffirmed the importance of the event in providing families with ongoing updates regarding their cases. The presence of victim/witness coordinators further demonstrates the community’s commitment to transparency, support, and healing, ensuring that families feel equipped with the necessary resources to navigate the legal system.
Background Context
The “Season of Remembrance” ceremony, initiated in 2011, serves as an annual memorial service to honor lives lost to homicide and violent acts in Memphis and Shelby County. Families and friends of homicide victims are invited to bring an ornament in memory of their lost loved ones, regardless of when their lives were taken. This act of remembrance has become an integral part of the holiday season in Memphis, displayed with a tree specifically honoring victims from the current year. With 359 homicides recorded in 2024, surpassing the previous record of 342 in 2021, the significance of such commemorative events becomes more pronounced amidst the rising trend of gun violence.
Community Initiatives
In response to the escalating violence, multiple initiatives have emerged in Memphis to combat crime and support affected families. The Joint Office of Neighborhood Safety & Engagement collaborates with local and county governments to focus on violence prevention and intervention specifically targeting gun violence. Additionally, the Group Violence Intervention (GVI) program has been adapted in Memphis to employ evidence-based strategies aimed at curbing group-involved violence. These programs emphasize that addressing the needs of a small portion of the population responsible for the majority of gun violence can effectively result in safer communities.
Conclusion
The “Season of Remembrance” event stands as a poignant reminder of the lives lost to gun violence in Memphis, reinforcing the communityโs persistent commitment to justice and healing. By participating in such gatherings and embracing ongoing initiatives, Memphis continues to honor the memories of victims while supporting their familiesโ pursuit of accountability. As citizens, staying engaged in these community-driven events is crucial to fostering a safer and more empathetic environment for all.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the “Season of Remembrance” event?
The “Season of Remembrance” is an annual memorial service held by the Shelby County District Attorneyโs Office to honor lives lost to homicide and violent acts in Memphis and Shelby County. Families and friends of homicide victims are encouraged to bring an ornament in honor of their loved one, regardless of the year in which their life was taken. During the ceremony, families place their ornaments on wreaths displayed inside the Hall of Mayors in Memphis City Hall throughout the holiday season. A tree is also displayed to honor each homicide victim for the current year. The service usually occurs during November or December.
When was the 15th annual “Season of Remembrance” event held?
The 15th annual “Season of Remembrance” event was held on December 1, 2025, at the Michael D. Rose Theater on the University of Memphis campus.
How many homicides were reported in Memphis in 2024?
In 2024, Memphis reported 359 homicides, surpassing the previous record of 342 in 2021.
What initiatives has the City of Memphis implemented to address gun violence?
The City of Memphis has implemented various initiatives aimed at reducing crime and supporting affected families. The Joint Office of Neighborhood Safety & Engagement, a collaborative effort between the City of Memphis and Shelby County Government, focuses on violence prevention and intervention, particularly addressing gun violence. Additionally, the Group Violence Intervention (GVI) program, adapted in Memphis, targets group-involved violence through evidence-based strategies, acknowledging that a small portion of the population is responsible for a significant percentage of homicides and gun violence incidents.
How can families participate in the “Season of Remembrance” event?
Families can participate by bringing a commemorative ornament to place on a wreath in memory of their loved one. A special tree is also displayed to honor each homicide victim for the current year. The ceremony provides a space for families to come together, remember loved ones lost to violence, and reaffirm the community’s commitment to justice, healing, and prevention.
Key Features of the “Season of Remembrance” Event
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Name | 15th Annual “Season of Remembrance” Ceremony |
| Date | December 1, 2025 |
| Location | Michael D. Rose Theater, University of Memphis |
| Purpose | To honor lives lost to homicide and violent acts in Memphis and Shelby County |
| Family Participation | Families place commemorative ornaments on memorial wreaths and a special tree honoring each homicide victim for the current year |
| Community Initiatives | Joint Office of Neighborhood Safety & Engagement and Group Violence Intervention (GVI) program |
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Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
