‘They were ... beautiful lives’
Victims memorialized a year after Nova Scotia mass killings
TRURO, N.S. — Relatives of 22 people slain during a rampage in rural Nova Scotia gathered inside a church Sunday to take part in an emotional ceremony that honoured the victims one year later.
The sombre event at First United Church in Truro, N.S., which was livestreamed, began with a provincewide moment of silence.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau shared remarks through a pre-recorded statement, saying he wished he could have attended the service.
“Even a year later, I know there is no comfort for the anguish of having an adored parent or precious child torn away,” he said, standing in front of a row of Canadian flags. “So all I can say is this: You are not alone. All Canadians stand with you and grieve with you.”
At the front of the church was a blue platform, upon which painted rocks displayed a single rose and the first name of each victim. At one point, relatives placed flowers next to each stone as each victim's name was read aloud.
Nova Scotia Premier Iain Rankin told the congregation it was important for those experiencing great loss to come together and seek strength from their community.
“As you and our communities continue on the journey of healing, my hope is that you'll be strengthened by the continued outpouring of support from Nova Scotians and people throughout the world,” he said.
The hour-long service was organized by a committee of the Nova Scotia Remembers Legacy Society, led by Jenny Kierstead, the sister of Lisa McCully — a neighbour of the gunman who was among the first killed on the night of April 18, 2020.
“We have all suffered so much this year that it is our intention to bring some light and beauty to our lives on this dark day,” she said in a pre-recorded statement.
“What we know is that a trauma such as the one that we've endured can shatter a person's life. I know it has mine. May this ceremony help you hear the whisper of your own heart, calling you back home to the love, peace and the wholeness that resides within.”
Earlier in the day, hundreds of people took part in a series of memorial walks and runs in and around Truro. Money raised from those events will help pay for a permanent memorial, the plans for which are still in the early stages.
Organizer Denise Burgess said the events were aimed at healing and remembrance.
“We want to turn the lens away from what happened to who these people were,” she said. “It gives us a chance to reflect on their lives — that they were full, beautiful lives and they were wonderful, giving people who contributed to our community.”
In Truro's Victoria Park, where the races ended, a large art installation pays tribute to the victims. Crafted by welder Wayne Smith, the statue features 24 hearts with the name of each victim, including an unborn child.
“There's a bit of healing that takes place when we can make this for people,” said Burgess, a teacher in Truro whose students once included Emily Tuck, who was killed with her parents in Portapique.