Memory and Heritage - 2000 block 16th St. SE

This shrine to Frederick Darnell Ard is in the 2000 block of 16th Street SE, Washington DC.
At 1:11 AM Saturday, November 14, 2009, CDC police officers responded to the 2000 block of 16th St SE, to investigate the report of a shooting. Upon arrival they discovered an adult male suffering from apparent multiple gunshot wounds. The victim, Frederick Darnell Ard, 42, of Suitland, Maryland, was transported to an area hospital where he was pronounced dead at 1:35 am.

Acording to a woman I met maintaining the shrine after the recent rains, Mr. Ard had grown up in the white house across the street, was well-regarded and liked, and understood the heritage of his people. His vigil had many children and families respecting his memory and contributing to the shrine.

It is the first shrine I have encountered that incorporates an African mask.

Edwin Reyes's memorial- Longfellow St NW

According to press reports, on November 31, 2009 about midnight there was a shooting in the 600 block of Longfellow St NW, Washington, DC, in the Brightwood neighborhood. Edwin Reyes, 23, of the 5500 block 7th St NW, died after transport to a hospital.

Many people appear to have raised a libation in his memory.

In memory of "Mama"- Rufina Hernandez

This shrine to is to Rufina Hernadez. It is constructed in a small closed storefront at 5421 Georgia Avenue NW, Washington DC.

About 9:00 PM on Saturday November 7, 2009. Rufina Hernadez. 51, of Hyattsville, MD, died of multiple gunshot wounds to her face and neck. She was the owner of La Casa Morita, a mom & pop liquor store.

Well loved for her gentleness, her nickname to all was "Mama." He loss was a deep shock to this busy and vibrant neighborhood.

According to witnesses, two men appear to have been involved in the robbery. They fled on foot after killing Mrs. Hernandez, taking a small amount of cash. Andre Lopez, 45, of no fixed address, was arrested for the murder on November 19th.

"The tears of God will show you the way" - Los Lobos

In memory of Donnell Tyson- Bass Place SE

This shrine to Donnell Tyson, who was 25 at the time of his death, is in the 5000 block of Bass Place SE, Washington.

On Saturday, November 7, 2009, at approximately 3:25 am, DC police officers responded to the 5000 block of Bass Place, SE after a 'ShotSpotter' automatic listening device detected the sounds of gunfire. They located an adult male suffering from multiple gunshot wounds lying on the sidewalk in front of 5023 Bass Place. DC Emergency Medical Services also responded to the scene, but could find no life signs. The victim, Donnell Tyson, was later pronounced dead on the scene.

While photographing this shrine, I met a soft-spoken young woman pushing a stroller who wanted to know about the blog, and thanked me for helping remember Mr. Tyson, whom she knew.

I hope some peace warms her heart, and all who suffer in our community.