Appropriateness

shooting committed by an individual in the United States. In the aftermath of the tragedy there was an outpouring of goodwill as people searched for ways to support the victims and survivors. Lines formed at blood donation centers, generous donations were made and flowers and messages were placed at the base of the iconic Welcome to Las Vegas sign not far from the site of the shooting. The City of Las Vegas managed to create a memorial park in a mere three day in the heart of the downtown’s Arts District a block from my home.

Completing this project in three days was a feat of extraordinary leadership and cooperation. It was an unprecedented public-private partnership – streamlining bureaucratic processes, accepting donations and marshaling hundreds of determined volunteers. The site has become a vibrant location where family and friends leave pictures, notes and other items of remembrance.

It has also become a place where community members come to pay their respects to the victims and their families. The park is fulfilling a vital need and has become a place for community healing. However, as time passes, the need for a more permanent, well-considered memorial is growing.

Memorials of this importance usually take years of planning and fundraising. They are often the result of a national design competition and a thoughtful community engagement process. For a memorial to properly fulfill its purpose it must honor victims in perpetuity and educate future generations. It must be a place where families and friends can return year after year and feel that their loved ones are being honored and their memories preserved. The current design continues to serve a critical need as the community continues to heal; however, it is time to start the planning process for a lasting and fitting memorial to honor the victims of this horrific tragedy.