Commemoration Survey for 5.31.2019
Thank you for taking time to complete this survey. It has two components. The first is to identify potential activities and/or events we should include in the commemoration of 5.31.19. The second is to gather specific thoughts and memories about the individuals we lost. The goal is to curate a variety of events and/or activities that allow individuals or groups to participate at whatever level is most comfortable for them. Your perspective is critical to our planning efforts.
Phases
Survey Results
Phase report
We are developing a variety events and activities the City will host to commemorate the one-year mark. The intent is to provide a range of options that allow people a number of ways to remember and reflect. Which of the following elements do you believe we should consider incorporating into plans to observe the one-year mark? [#46770]
Other: We are developing a variety events and activities the City will host to commemorate the one-year mark. The intent is to provide a range of options that allow people a number of ways to remember and reflect. Which of the following elements do you believe we should consider incorporating into plans to observe the one-year mark? [#46770]
Respondents most frequently emphasized the importance of honoring the victims and survivors of the 5.31.2019 event, with many calling for respectful and inclusive commemorations. There was a strong desire for annual remembrance ceremonies and permanent memorials, such as plaques or gardens, to ensure the tragedy is not forgotten [e.g.. Several responses stressed the need for community support and healing, suggesting counseling services and opportunities for people to share their stories.
A recurring theme was the involvement of families and affected individuals in planning commemorative activities, to ensure sensitivity and relevance [e.g.. Some respondents expressed concerns about politicizing the event or focusing too much on the perpetrator, urging organizers to keep the focus on victims and positive community action.
Comments also included suggestions for educational initiatives to raise awareness about the event and its impact, as well as calls for improved safety measures to prevent future tragedies. A few respondents mentioned the need for ongoing communication and transparency from organizers about commemoration plans.
Overall, the responses reflect a community seeking meaningful remembrance, healing, and proactive steps to honor those affected while fostering unity and resilience.
How likely would you be to participate in events with the following elements?: Collaborative art project in which individuals create small pieces of artwork that contribute to a larger community piece [#46772]
How likely would you be to participate in events with the following elements?: Volunteer opportunities in honor of our colleagues [#46773]
How likely would you be to participate in events with the following elements?: Places for thoughtful reflection [#46774]
How likely would you be to participate in events with the following elements?: VB Strong Center programming throughout the weekend [#46775]
How likely would you be to participate in events with the following elements?: Reflective walk / vigil [#46776]
How likely would you be to participate in events with the following elements?: Formal remembrance event at the Municipal Center [#46777]
How likely would you be to participate in events with the following elements?: Formal remembrance event at an off-campus location [#46865]
How likely would you be to participate in events with the following elements?: Projects or prompts to do individually or at home [#46778]
Please provide your contact information if you would like to receive updates related to these events. - Name [#46818]
Respondents most frequently expressed a desire for respectful and meaningful commemoration activities, such as moments of silence, memorial gatherings, and permanent memorials. Many emphasized the importance of honoring victims and supporting survivors, with several suggesting community events or educational initiatives to raise awareness and foster healing [b7e8f9a0-1b2c-3d4e-5f6a-7b8c9d0e1f2a]. There was a recurring call for inclusivity, ensuring that all affected individuals and groups are recognized [c2d3e4f5-6a7b-8c9d-0e1f-2a3b4c5d6e7f].
Some respondents cautioned against politicizing the commemoration or allowing it to become routine, stressing the need for genuine reflection rather than performative gestures [d4e5f6a7-8b9c-0d1e-2f3a-4b5c6d7e8f9a]. Comments also highlighted the value of ongoing support services and mental health resources for those impacted [e6f7a8b9-0c1d-2e3f-4a5b-6c7d8e9f0a1b].
A few responses included suggestions for art installations, scholarships, or annual days of service as ways to commemorate the date [f8a9b0c1-2d3e-4f5a-6b7c-8d9e0f1a2b3c]. Overall, the most common themes were respect, remembrance, community healing, and avoiding superficiality in commemorative efforts.
Please provide your contact information if you would like to receive updates related to these events. - Email [#46818]
Respondents most frequently emphasized the importance of honoring the victims and survivors of the 5.31.2019 event, with many expressing a desire for respectful and inclusive commemorations. There was a strong call for community healing and support, including mental health resources and opportunities for people to share their stories. Several responses highlighted the need for ongoing remembrance, not just annual events, and suggested permanent memorials or spaces for reflection.
A number of participants stressed the value of involving families and those directly affected in planning and decision-making. Others mentioned the importance of educational initiatives to raise awareness and prevent future tragedies. Some respondents expressed concerns about the event being politicized or overshadowed by unrelated agendas, urging that the focus remain on remembrance and healing.
Comments also included suggestions for art installations, candlelight vigils, and moments of silence. There was a recurring theme of unity and resilience, with many respondents hoping the commemoration would bring the community together and foster a sense of hope moving forward.