Thank you for joining us here today, as we honour the memories of our nation’s children, whose lives were so tragically cut short. This is not merely another candlelight vigil; it is a sacred pause in our busy lives, a moment of reflection to honour these young souls. Each name, each story, each life represented here, was filled with promise, possibility, and purpose.

As Mayor of Kingston, I stand before you with a heavy heart, yet with a profound sense of duty, duty to remember, duty to acknowledge, and most importantly, duty to act.

This Amanda Monument stands as more than a stone structure. It is a powerful symbol of remembrance, of lives that must never be reduced to statistics or forgotten headlines. It reminds us that behind every tragedy is a child who laughed, who dreamed, and who was deeply loved. It calls upon all of us, parents, guardians, educators, leaders, and citizens, to do better.

This year’s Child Month theme, “Prioritize our Children’s Mental Health: Strong Minds, Safer Future,” could not be more timely. Too many of our children are facing silent battles, struggles with trauma, fear, neglect, and emotional pain. Too often, these unseen challenges end in devastating loss.

We must ask ourselves: Are we listening enough? Are we creating safe spaces where our children feel seen, heard, and valued? Are we equipping our schools and communities with the necessary tools and support systems to nurture their mental well-being?

Tonight, as the candlelight flickers, let it represent more than remembrance. Let it symbolize a commitment, a collective promise, that we will protect our children, nurture their minds, and safeguard their futures.

We must strengthen the systems that support them. We must confront the violence, neglect, and social challenges that place them at risk. And we must build communities where every child knows they matter, where every child feels safe, and where every child has the opportunity to thrive.

To the families who grieve, we extend our deepest condolences. Your pain is seen, your loss is felt, and your loved ones will never be forgotten. As a city, we mourn with you. As a people, we stand beside you.

Let this moment not end when the candles burn out. Let it live on, in our policies, in our actions, and in our daily interactions with the children entrusted to our care.

May the memories of these young lives guide us toward compassion. May their stories inspire meaningful change.  And may their light forever shine in the heart of this city.

Thankyou.

 

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