On August 3, 2019, one of the worst mass shootings in US history claimed the lives of 23 Borderland residents and affected the lives of so many others when a Dallas-area resident walked into the Walmart by Cielo Vista Mall and opened fire on shoppers and employees.

As the one- year mark approaches, the community is invited to reflect on that fateful day and memorialize those we lost. But because it is not safe to gather in large groups due to the COVID-19 pandemic, in-person events are limited. The solemn anniversary will mostly consist of virtual and visual commemorations. Planned events and activities include a luminaria drive-thru, and a Star on the Mountain light tribute.

In-Person Events

Luminaria Remembrance: Drive-thru - A path along Ascarate Park will be lined with luminarias to allow guests to remember and reflect together but safely from a distance. The pathway will include local musicians spread across the park paying tribute with their music. Sunday, Aug. 2 and Monday, Aug. 3 from 8:30 to 11 p.m.

Orange Ribbons Memorial at Ponder Park – When the items from the makeshift memorial near the Cielo Vista Walmart were removed, some of them were transported to nearby Ponder Park where a smaller, temporary memorial was set up.

Monday, Aug. 3, from 4 to 7 p.m. anyone wishing to pay their respects can add a commemorative orange ribbon in remembrance. Orange is the color adopted by the gun violence prevention movement. Face coverings required and social distance guidelines will be in place.

DIGIE - From Friday, July 31 to Friday, August 7 the digital wall outside at the Museum of History will show a commemorative video as well as photos submitted by the public from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Those who visit the wall are asked to follow social distancing guidelines and wear face covering.

Virtual and Visual Commemorations

• Thursday, July 30 to Monday, August 3 testimonial videos will air on the City of El Paso and Museum of History Facebook.

• At 9 p.m. on Monday, August 3 the El Paso Chamber will flash the Star on the Mountain 23 times, in ten-second intervals, in honor of the 23 victims.

• August 2 to August 15 the public art piece on Airway, I-10, and airport landscaping will be lit orange. Orange is the color adopted by the gun violence prevention movement.

• Commemorative billboard honoring the victims has been placed on I-10 between Airway and Geronimo, facing east. It will stay up through August 23.

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