The Americus Rotary Club partnered with the local District Attorney’s office to plant a peace lily in honor of violence victims on April 10. The planting comes during National Crime Victims Awareness Week.

Laura McConatha, chair of the Peace Committee for the Americus Rotary Club, shared a few words. “I think it’s important that we remain aware that this is an ongoing problem, violence in our community, and it’s important for us to carve out time to remember the people who are victims are not just the people that lose their lives, it’s all the people who know them, love them. It’s the entire community that loses.”

Rotary had installed a peace pole in Rylander Park the month prior. McConatha shared its significance. “The purpose is so that people can explore peace, either individually or in groups, offer reconciliation to those in need, remember and honor those who have suffered or died through violence, celebrate and recognize peacemakers, build goodwill and community spirit. . . it provides a gathering space for those who are seeking to make a positive impact on healing in our community and in the world.”

Those gathered for the lily planting lit candles, shielding them from the breeze, and observed a moment of silence for victims of violence. After the observance, McConatha and Jay Anderson, current president of Rotary, planted the peace lily.

The local DA’s office has been participating in various activities throughout the circuit for National Crime Victims Awareness Week. District Attorney Lewis Lamb spoke of the importance of the observance. “We were invited today to join with the Rotary Club for the planting of [the] peace lily and recognition of victims of violence in our community, and so we came out for the purpose of making. . . it known where we stand on those issues.”

Lamb spoke of the need for people to learn to live peaceably with their family, friends, and neighbors. “Otherwise. . . we’re never going to get to a point where we don’t have to have these ceremonies anymore.”