In the aftermath of a recent fatal fentanyl overdose and report of an armed gunman at our community's Wakefield High School, a healing circle was organized at the Arlington Mill Community Center by the Center for Youth and Family Advocacy for students and others affected by these deeply disturbing incidents.
Families, concerned citizens, and local youth were supported by representatives from CYFA, Arlington County Social Services, NAACP, AHC. Inc, Arlington Public Schools, an official from the County's Juvenile Justice office, and other community groups. The circle, the first of several, was facilitated by Gregory Baldwin, CYFA's director of Restorative Practices, and organized by Devanshi Patel (co-founder & CEO of CYFA) and her staff.
From a statement by CFYA: "Tragedies never make sense. It is in these moments that our community is being tested, the strength of our unity prevails. This week, our community experienced the heartbreaking loss of a beloved student at Wakefield High School. Our collective prayers are with the young man's family, loved ones and friends.
As we seek to honor him, we invite students to join us in a healing community circle that creates a safe space to share memories, celebrate his life, and bring something forward in his honor."
Photography by Lloyd Wolf.
