20 years after Columbine
Events marking the anniversary conclude with a tribute to the victims.
A series of events to mark the 20th anniversary of the Columbine High School shooting concluded Saturday with a ceremony paying tribute to the victims and highlighting the ongoing strength of the suburban Denver community.
Hundreds of residents sat in chairs or on the grass to hear speakers reflect on how their lives had changed. Among those addressing the crowd were survivors, former school staff and family members of the teacher and 12 students who were shot to death by two students in trench coats, carrying handguns, shotguns and pipe bombs.
Sean Graves, a 15-year-old freshman at the time, held back tears as he recalled the moment he was struck by six bullets. The first-time father said he was filled with pride that he graduated from Columbine High School, and upbeat about the future. “We showed people that we can overcome evil and we can love one another and we can become a family,” he told the crowd.
A video message from former President Clinton was also played. “You’ve shown America and the world what true community looks like and have reminded us that the power of love and hope is far greater than the force of darkness and division and hatred,” he said.
The memorial took place in Littleton, Colo., a Denver suburb home to more than 47,000 people.
For three consecutive days, somber memorials and vigils marked the anniversary of the school massacre, the largest at the time, but one that has been followed by scores of mass shootings at sites including other schools, nightclubs, a synagogue and an outdoor concert venue.
Hundreds gathered Friday for a vigil at the Columbine Memorial in Clement Park.
“You’re a Columbine Rebel for life and no one can ever take that away from you,” one woman’s shirt read.