Stolen Lives Induction Ceremony 2024

The Stolen Lives Induction Ceremony is a solemn, yet empowering occasion at which recent and past victims of police killings are formally inducted into the roster of the Stolen Lives Project. The Stolen Lives Induction Ceremony is both an affirmation of life and a call to action. It allows the Stolen Life, demonized by the powers-that-be, to be remembered the way they should be remembered: by those who love them – and for that truth to be shared with all those in attendance.

Since 1997, thirteen Stolen Lives Induction Ceremonies have taken place in New York City and a half dozen ceremonies have taken place in other cities around the country, in community spaces, schools, and churches. In December 2020, both in consideration of and in taking advantage of the safety precautions during the COVID-19 pandemic, the first national and virtual ceremony was organized. Families and other loved ones of about a hundred Stolen Lives, locally and from other parts of the country, have taken part and received certificates that marked the formal induction. At these ceremonies, families speak of their loved ones and their struggles for justice, their voices joined by community organizers and others in the fight against police violence, as well as artists who contribute their work for healing, for strength, for empowerment. The ceremonies end with a pledge by all in attendance, as a (re)affirmation of our commitment to the struggle.

This Stolen Lives Induction Ceremony is the fifth to take place entirely online, with the participation of families across the country.

Your funds, most graciously appreciated, would directly support ASL interpretation for our annual event, streaming service fees and mailing costs for the family certificates.