Clark County officials recently launched a funding campaign to build a permanent memorial in honor of the victims of the tragic 1 October shooting that took place seven years ago on the Las Vegas Strip. The memorial, named the Forever One Memorial, is set to open in 2027 and will feature a 58-foot tower among other elements.
The fundraising goal for the memorial is in the tens of millions of dollars, and officials are aiming to secure the necessary funds within the next three years. The Vegas Strong Fund, a nonprofit organization established to aid victims of the shooting, will lead the fundraising efforts by seeking contributions from both the public and government grants.
Jan Jones Blackhurst, former Las Vegas mayor and current chair of the board of directors for Vegas Strong, emphasized the importance of community involvement in the construction of the memorial. She highlighted the significance of community support in preserving the authenticity and integrity of the project.
The Forever One Memorial will be located near the site of the shooting and will feature an infinity symbol design. The centerpiece of the memorial will be a 58-foot glass “Tower of Light,” symbolizing the 58 lives lost during the tragedy. Additionally, a circular chamber named “Surround” will contain 22,000 points of light, representing the number of attendees at the Route 91 Harvest Music Festival where the shooting occurred.
While the exact cost of the memorial is still unknown, substantial funding will be required to bring the project to fruition. The Clark County Commission previously allocated $1 million in grant funding for the memorial, and donations have been received from various sources. However, additional contributions are needed to reach the fundraising target.
In an effort to learn from past experiences, officials studied other memorials dedicated to victims of mass shootings. Some memorials faced challenges and delays in their construction, underscoring the importance of setting clear goals and deadlines. By aiming to open the Forever One Memorial on the 10-year anniversary of the shooting, organizers hope to honor the victims and provide a space for remembrance and healing.
During the unveiling of the fundraising campaign, Karessa Royce, a survivor of the shooting, emphasized the significance of memorials in preserving history and honoring those who were lost. Paramedic Brian Rogers, who responded to the scene on the night of the shooting, expressed the need for a dedicated space where families, survivors, and the community can come together to reflect and remember.
The Forever One Memorial aims to serve as a place of solace and remembrance for all those affected by the 1 October shooting. With the support of the community and various stakeholders, the memorial is poised to become a lasting tribute to the victims and a symbol of resilience and unity in the face of tragedy.