News from Portland, ME

Portland, Maine’s vigil was attended by about 70 people. A number of organizations sponsored the event including the faith and medical communities. We also had “Silent Witness” cutouts to help us remember those who have died from gun violence. We held our vigil at noon which was accompanied by the ringing of church bells and the City Hall bell. We lit a single candle and opened with a prayer for all faiths. Two very brave women who were victims of gun violence spoke about their experiences. Dayna was attacked where she worked and said her son saved her life as she tried to protect him (she was 17-weeks pregnant) with her arm. The bullet passed through bone, muscle, and tissue coming out harmlessley on the other side. Judi, the mother 25-year-old Darien who was shot two years ago to the very day, spoke from her heart about her daughter and the shooting. She was comforted by Rev. Jill Saxby from the Maine Council of Churches. There was not a dry eye in the crowd. Speakers talked about the ease with which guns can be obtained by those who should not have them. We also heard from the director of a domestic violence shelter about the dangers of guns related to domestic violence. We closed with a moment of silence. Many in the crowd stayed and talked and hugged. It really was an amazing experience. Thanks go to Maine Citizens Against Handgun Violence, States United Against Gun Violence, Mayors Against Illegal Guns, Maine Medical Association, Physicians for Social Responsibility Maine Chapter, Boys to Men, Family Crisis Services, Peace Action Maine, and Maine Council of Churches. In attendance as well were representatives of Temple Bet Ha’am in Portland and Million Mom March Maine Chapter.