This year’s milestone event, themed “30 Years Strong,” brought together survivors, families, elected officials, community leaders, advocates, and supporters from across Massachusetts to honor loved ones lost to violence and to raise critical funds for the Peace Institute’s programs and services. To date, the organization has raised nearly $500,000 toward its $600,000 goal by Father’s Day.

The Mother’s Day Walk for Peace is the Peace Institute’s largest annual fundraiser and a powerful tradition rooted in remembrance, healing, and hope. Funds raised support the organization’s ongoing advocacy, training, and services for survivors of homicide victims, communities impacted by violence, formerly incarcerated individuals re-entering communities, and young people working to build a future free from violence.

“This year’s walk was an incredible reflection of what 30 years of community, resilience, and collective action can accomplish,” said Clementina Chery, CEO & President of Louis D. Brown Peace Institute.. “Seeing thousands of people come together to honor loved ones while investing in peace and healing is deeply powerful and reminds us why this work is so important.”

The day began with registration and an opening program before participants stepped off on the annual walk through Dorchester. Following the walk, attendees gathered for a celebratory community rally and concert featuring live music by Angelena and the Unit, mocktails, local food vendors including Snacks Box Boston and Murl’s Kitchen, entertainment, activities, and special gifts for mothers.

In recognition of the milestone anniversary, landmarks and buildings across Massachusetts also participated in “Turn Massachusetts Purple,” lighting their facades purple in honor of the Louis D. Brown Peace Institute and the families and communities impacted by violence.

Founded in 1994 following the murder of Louis D. Brown, the Peace Institute has become a nationally recognized center of healing, teaching, and learning for families and communities affected by murder, trauma, grief, and loss.

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Supporters can continue contributing toward the organization’s $600,000 fundraising goal through Father’s Day.

About the Louis D. Brown Peace Institute

The Louis D. Brown Peace Institute’s mission is to support and advocate for families and communities impacted by murder, trauma, grief, and loss. The Peace Institute is currently conducting a Campaign for Peace, a transformative capital campaign to raise $25 million for the construction of a Center of Healing, Teaching, and Learning in Dorchester. The Peace Institute has been an integral partner to the City of Boston and has developed best practices in serving families and communities for 30 years. We offer resources to families seeking support and training to providers in the field of homicide response. Learn more: https://www.LDBpeaceinstitute.org/.