The Mayor of Walsall, Councillor Anthony Harris, writes a message for the memory tree at Willenhall CHART Centre’s COVID-19 memorial event.
Nine events were held to enable residents honour loved ones lost to COVID-19, share memories and thank key workers and volunteers.
The Mayor of Walsall, Councillor Anthony Harris, joined Willenhall CHART Centre to light a candle and write a message on a leaf for the memory tree. Rev. Rosanne Wilshire from St Stephen’s Church gave a blessing.
At Moxley Peoples Centre, a group that formed about a year into the pandemic to help people navigate grief, social isolation and challenges of the past five years, came together to write messages on wooden hearts placed on a lighted memory tree.
Residents at Rushall Community Centre also shared heartfelt messages on wooden hearts, which were placed on a memory tree.
Darlaston All Active hosted arts and crafts activities which included making wooden coasters, stars and bookmarks. There was also a poem reading and an observed minute’s silence in remembrance of loved ones.
Walsall Black Sisters Collective came together at Bethel Lighthouse to remember loved ones lost during COVID-19, reflected on the work they carried out including their befriending and food parcel services and thanked key workers for their efforts.
Other events at Brownhills Community Centre, Aaina Community Hub, Ryecroft Hub, and Collingwood Centre featured memory books and trees which will remain on display as a reminder of personal and collective experiences.
“ I am deeply touched by our communities’ response in marking the COVID-19 Day of Reflection. It was an opportunity to honour loved ones lost during the pandemic, express our gratitude to those who stood by us during those challenging times and reflect on our experiences. These memorial events were a testament to our resilience, unity and the enduring community spirit. Let us continue to support one another and cherish the bonds that have strengthened us over the past five years. “
Councillor Garry Perry
Leader of Walsall Council