On October 8, nearly 70 neighbors, friends, and community members gathered in Lakeville for an evening of remembrance, reflection, and hope — a powerful reminder of what it means to stand together.
The evening began with the Red Sand Project, a visual reminder of those who too often fall through the cracks.
From there, participants walked by candlelight to Project SAGE, where we honored the lives of 23 Connecticut residents lost to domestic violence. The youngest was just one month old.
As each name was read aloud, the community responded, “We remember their name.” It was a moving moment of shared remembrance and unity.
But the Vigil was also about looking forward. Supporting survivors is at the heart of Project SAGE's work, and preventing violence requires something more — building understanding, encouraging conversations, and changing the attitudes and behaviors that allow abuse to continue.
Project SAGE Board Chair Tom Connell captured the spirit of the evening:
“Your presence here is the sound of hope.”
That hope comes from a community that cares, people willing to show up for one another, and a shared commitment to making a difference.
To everyone who joined us, thank you. The Vigil was one evening in October, but the conversations, understanding, and commitment to building safer, healthier communities continue throughout the year.