Tribute to Francisco “Frankie” Valencia

On October 31, 2009, after attending a family party at home and taking his young cousins trick-or-treating, Frankie went to a Halloween party with a friend—a party where he knew no one other than the person with whom he attended. Just minutes after arriving he was shot multiple times—an inexplicable act of violence that ended Frankie’s young life. Frankie was murdered in a senseless, heartless act of gang and gun violence.
Many try to find the words to describe Frankie—his smile, his laughter, his charisma. “My mission is to keep moving forward, representing diversity and optimism. I intend to embody my values and try to facilitate others’ expression of their own values. I expect challenges in the future, but also expect to instill hope in others (and myself) to help overcome those challenges. I will walk hand in hand with my family and friends to achieve goals both communally and/or individually.” Frankie actively explored what it means to be a man in our society and what kind of man he wanted to be. He set his goals high—challenging those around him to think big too. Frankie aspired to have a career in politics—serving as a role model for Chicago’s young Latino community. He dedicated time outside of his honors courses at DePaul University to be a mentor, advisor, and volunteer in social welfare and educational programs throughout Chicago, as well as in Columbia. Frankie’s hero was Barack Obama. He was absolutely convinced that he and Obama were kindred spirits—grounded in principles of truth, justice, equality, service, and love. During his time at DePaul Frankie was nominated to intern at the White House. He also won the Illinois Lincoln Laureates Award, a state-wide award given to students who demonstrate excellence in academics and service with values resembling those of Abraham Lincoln. Just days after his death, Frankie was to receive that award from Illinois Governor Pat Quinn. Frankie’s ambition, idealism, intelligence, enthusiasm and commitment made him a natural leader. Frankie strongly believed in socially responsible leadership. Although he was an adult, Frankie was also our child and he could have been yours too. There was nothing about Frankie or his family that should have put them at risk. Frankie believed in people, in family, in good, and especially in the city of Chicago. Frankie hoped to create real change in the world. I challenge you not to give up on that idea. Frankie will always be our minds and forever in our hearts.