In a poignant tribute over the weekend, David Torres, the father of Joaquin, a victim of the Parkland shooting, took to the streets with a can of black paint to honor his son’s memory. He painted a striking mural featuring a portrait of his 17-year-old son alongside the powerful message: “We Demand Change.” This heartfelt artwork quickly gained traction online, serving as a somber reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive gun control reform.
Parkland 17 Exhibit
Torres’s mural was part of the “Parkland 17” exhibit, an event in Miami dedicated to commemorating the lives lost in the horrific shooting. Organized by basketball star Dwayne Wade, the event aimed to galvanize grassroots activism, providing phone booths for attendees to reach out to their representatives regarding gun legislation. At the heart of this gathering was Torres, whose emotional mural resonated deeply with the community.
Visitors from the school community were invited to sign the mural, and many shared messages of hope and solidarity, according to student Emma Johnson. The emotional impact of Torres’s silent and focused painting process was palpable. “He was just breathing heavily while painting, completely immersed in the moment,” Johnson shared. “He even took a hammer to create small holes in the wall for flowers.”
A Mission for Change
This mural marks just the beginning of Torres’s mission for legislative change. He has embraced the role of a “graphic activist,” vowing to stand alongside Parkland students in their quest for accountability. “I have a new purpose, and I intend to pursue it until the very end,” he stated. “My role is to support the agenda of the youth demanding answers.”
The “Parkland 17” exhibit plans to extend its run to allow other families to share their tributes to loved ones lost. “We might add to it this weekend,” curator Grace Mitchell mentioned. “Families may wish to display items like college acceptance letters or school colors to honor their children.”
Community Support
Much respect goes to Torres and all grieving families and students who are valiantly advocating for change. They embody the fight for a better future.
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Summary
David Torres, the father of Parkland shooting victim Joaquin, painted a powerful mural in tribute to his son, featuring the message “We Demand Change.” This artwork, part of the “Parkland 17” exhibit, highlights the urgent need for gun control reform. Visitors were invited to sign the mural, fostering community support. Torres aims to be a “graphic activist” alongside Parkland students, emphasizing the importance of advocating for legislative change.
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