Journey to Justice
Today marks 5 months since Preston’s death. I'm going to talk about our Journey to Justice.
We gather here today united by a common bond of grief and resilience, a bond that has only grown stronger in the wake of Preston’s tragic departure from our lives. Preston, whose spirit and memory ignite a flame of justice within each of us, was taken from us too soon, his potential unfulfilled, his dreams unattained. Today, we stand together, not only to mourn his loss but to reaffirm our collective commitment to seeking justice for Preston. These are ONLY the first steps for justice for Preston. We have a long road ahead and the road to justice is slow.
As we navigate through this difficult journey, our resolve is tested, but let us remember the strength that comes from unity, compassion, and the relentless pursuit of justice. We seek not vengeance but accountability; we demand that those responsible for Preston’s untimely departure are brought before the law to answer for their actions. This pursuit of justice is not just for Preston, but for every individual who has suffered at the hands of injustice, whose stories compel us to fight harder, to raise our voices louder, and to stand unwavering in our quest for righteousness.
In this endeavor, we have witnessed an overwhelming outpouring of support from our community. To each of you who have stood by us, who have lent your voices, your time, and your resources, I extend my deepest gratitude. Your support has been the beacon of hope in our darkest times, reminding us that even in the face of profound loss, we are not alone. Your solidarity has fortified our spirits, enabling us to carry on this fight, not just as individuals grieving a personal loss, but as a community united against injustice.
Your acts of kindness, large and small, have woven a tapestry of support that has enveloped our family and Preston's friends, offering comfort and strength. For every candle lit, every prayer whispered, every march and every rally, you have shown that in the face of injustice, our community stands as a formidable force of love, compassion, and unwavering support for what is right and just.
As we move forward, let us carry Preston’s memory as a torchlight, guiding us towards a future where justice prevails not just in words, but in action. Let us honor his legacy by continuing to support each other, by remaining vigilant in our quest for justice, and by never allowing the flame of hope to be extinguished. May we always Hear and Honor Preston's voice and fight for his rights. Now, our Voices need to be heard for him. I hope to see you outside of the courthouse during trial with signs displaying our ongoing fight for justice in this journey.
In closing, let us renew our pledge to seek justice for Preston, to hold accountable those who robbed him of his future, and to ensure that his legacy is one of change, hope, and the enduring power of a community united in the face of adversity.
Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for your support, your love, and your commitment to justice.
—Written by Melissa Ciconte, Preston’s Bonus Mom, and shared at the monthly “Light the Night” walk
