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 When I was painting on the mural on Sunday February 21, Jamie stopped his bike and asked if he could take a photo. He lives in Seattle, and was visiting his brother. Biking through the hills he had changed spontaneously his route, and was surprised to come upon the memorial by chance. We got talking. Jamie, in his late thirties, is a writer, teacher, union organizer and activist. A couple of days later, we talked about life, God and the world in my backyard. He shared how his heart and breath was opening with the magnificence of the trees. We stayed in touch, and he sent me the following heartbreaking story, which you now can see on the garage doors:

Charleena Lyles

April 24th, 1987 - June 18, 2017, Student at North Seattle College, Mother of 4, enjoyed writing poetry, dancing, rapping, while in mental health crisis Shot by Police in front of 3 of her children, Baby in her Womb Killed too, Seattle, Washington



Comments

Jamie said…
Thanks so much for sharing this, Karina! It’s very moving to see Charleena included in the memorial beside the many other mothers, fathers, friends, brothers and sisters, daughters and sons lost to racist violence. The cumulative tragedy of it, and the human cost, is overwhelming. I know facing this reality and feeling it is part of recognition and healing, and I’m grateful that you and your collaborators help make this possible. I also admire the relational way you go about this work, so that it flows from community and the coming together to share and transform.

Thanks also for your generosity in sharing your space, wisdom, amd stories with me over the past few days. I look forward to continuing to benefit from your incredible spirit by reading this blog from afar! -Jamie
July 26, 2021 at 10:40 AM
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