On December 1st, 2014 my aunt, Margarita Rivera was brutally murdered by an ex-boyfriend. The images you see above are of her memorial that we held on 107-22 Watson Place in Queens, the memorial was held to honor her life. This was a commemoration for what she left behind, two beautiful children and my loving family. Not only was she a sweet and loving person to her children and all of her nieces and nephews, she was also a foster mother who took care of children who were in need. The purple balloons as well as candles are put in to use to highlight and raise awareness for domestic violence. Although I am saddened by my aunts passing, I am honored that I can now be a domestic violence advocate and help tell her story.

-Darreus Francis