John,

Thanksgiving week is always a special time for Americans. It’s an opportunity to enjoy great food with family and loved ones while sharing gratitude for what we have.

For me and my family, however, this time of year holds a somber weight. On November 23, 2012 my son Jordan was killed. He was at a gas station with his friends when a man pulled up beside them, complaining about the “loud music” they were playing. He pulled out a gun and fired into the car, killing my son.

When I got the call that Jordan was gone, my entire world crashed down around me. The air was stolen from my lungs. It’s the call parents hope and pray will never come. The realization that no matter what we did, we were not able to keep our children safe from harm. Not a day goes by when I don’t grieve for my son. This week, the empty chair at my table serves as a reminder that his legacy and our love for him is all that remains of my Jordan.

America is facing an epidemic of gun violence. We’re on pace for a record number of mass shootings in 2023. Every day, more innocent citizens are shot dead in the streets. Each of those lives matters. Every time a life is stolen by gun violence, their families, loved ones, and neighbors are forever traumatized.

This Thanksgiving, I’ll be keeping Jordan in my heart while I cherish the time with my family. Though he’s been gone for eleven years, his memory will always be with me. For any of you who feel a similar heavy grief around this holiday, please know you are not alone.

God bless you,

Lucy