Las Vegas Strip to Install Memorial Honoring 2017 Mass Shooting
LISTEN TO THIS ARTICLE:In a landmark decision, the Clark County Commission has greenlighted a permanent memorial for the victims of the 1 October shooting. Recognized as the deadliest mass shooting in American history, this tragedy near the Las Vegas Strip led to 58 deaths and injured over 800. This approval marks the culmination of a four-year journey to establish a lasting tribute to the victims and provide some measure of solace to the grieving community.
Details of the "Forever One" Memorial
Just off the Las Vegas Strip, the Forever One Memorial is an enduring symbol of infinity. Central to the memorial, a 58-foot "Tower of Light" serves as a poignant reminder of the 58 individuals whose lives were tragically cut short.
Accompanying this is the "Surround" — a chamber filled with 22,000 illuminated points — mirroring the exact number of attendees at the Route 91 Harvest Music Festival, the event that witnessed this horrific incident. The Surround strives to evoke the shared unity of a concert, echoing memories of a 22,000-strong audience.
Related: Shooting Incident at the Horseshoe Hotel Triggers InquiryA salient feature of the memorial is the "Remembrance Ring". Spanning 58 feet in diameter, this ring comprises 58 vertical, triangular structures symbolizing candles. Anchoring this feature, the "Angel Wall" will be inscribed with words denoting the victims' relationships, such as father, daughter, and friend.
The Remembrance Ring offers a solemn space for visitors to reminisce and pay their respects. Additionally, a community plaza will be integrated into the memorial, serving as a hub for live music, memorial ceremonies, and other events.
Journey of the Committee and the Community's Response
The 1 October Memorial Committee was established two years after the tragic event. By June 2022, the committee began inviting design proposals for the memorial and subsequently endorsed JCJ Architecture's concept in July.
Clark County Commissioner Marilyn Kirkpatrick extolled the committee for their unwavering commitment and underscored their focus on community involvement throughout the design phase. The next step involves the commission directing county staff to find a suitable nonprofit to manage the construction and maintenance of the memorial. This choice will be confirmed in an impending meeting.
In the wake of the disaster, the community showcased remarkable resilience and solidarity. Locals proactively erected their own memorials to the victims. Notably, 58 white crosses were displayed near the iconic "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas" sign, and the Las Vegas Community Healing Garden came into existence, featuring 58 trees and other significant community artifacts.
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