It was a sombre evening in Stratford on Sunday as friends, family, and the community met at the cenotaph for a memorial candlelight walk in memory of Kassidy Ballantyne-Holmes, who was killed earlier this month in a shooting.
“Eleven days ago our worlds changed with a senseless act that took Kassidy away from this Earthly place,” said organizer Kerry Flood, who addressed the gathering of people.
The cenotaph area was filled with supporters, many who brought candles and lanterns to commemorate the event.
“We don’t have to go through this alone,” said Flood. “That’s the idea behind tonight, to come together, and celebrate the memory of dear Kassidy, with the hopes that this can be the beginning of a journey towards healing.”
Flood continued to urge everyone in attendance to come together, and become activists for change.
“Let’s stand up for the vulnerable and marginalized people in our community,” she said. “Let it be known that we will not stand for violence against women.”
The event was live streamed on Facebook to allow anyone unable to physically be in attendance to feel the love and support of the community. After making opening statements, Flood introduced the audience to one of Ballantyne-Holmes's long-time friends, Tash.
“I met Kassidy in Grade 9,” she said. “This is tragic, but I am going to ask everyone to bring some peace at this moment to Kassidy, her children, and her friends and family. It just takes a minute to send a message, pick a day and send a message of love to all the people that matter to you.”
Following statements from Tash, she asked the community to take a few moments and let out some deep breaths, make noise, or let out emotion. Flood then took the opportunity to introduce the crowd to Kassidy’s aunt, who talked fondly about Ballantyne-Holmes, and encouraged everyone to remain kind during this difficult time.
“Don’t turn the pain into anger, but rather into love. Say something nice to someone, show people you care. For Kassidy she is in a special place that is safe and warm, and no demons are chasing her. There are two families grieving, and sometimes I think the systems have failed us, so it is up to us to help fix the systems, all while being supportive of each other,” she said.
Following the statements, the crowd walked the entire path along the Avon River, before finishing up at the cenotaph.
The shooting is the second fatal one in Stratford this year, following the murder-suicide on Bradshaw Drive in August where two people died and two others injured.
