Dear Euclid Community . . .

Dear Euclid Community,

One week ago, at just after 7 pm on Tuesday, December 10, during our final Neighbor Night of the year, Marian Grier (21) and Antwon Grier (20) – a brother and sister – were tragically shot and killed just two miles away. 

We share in the outrage and grief of their mother, Lashawnda Grier, their family, and all the families affected by this senseless violence in our community. No one should have to experience the pain and heartbreak that comes with losing a loved one to gun violence, and no mother should have to choose which of her children to run to for lifesaving measures.  

Many of you have told us, “This is our community,” and “We shouldn’t have to live this way.” As the co-chairs of the Hope Task Force, this tragedy has only strengthened our resolve to bring about the change that Euclid needs – including the compassionate and caring response that families impacted by violence deserve. 

Over the past two years, the Euclid Hope Task Force has worked to engage city leadership and residents in discussions and planning initiatives to reduce violence. Research shows that it can be done. We’ve learned about community violence reduction strategies that have worked in other places, and we believe that with dedication, accountability, and collective effort, we will bring about the change we are all seeking. 

On January 14 at 6:30 p.m., our Neighbor Nights will resume; the second Tuesday of the month will be a regular gathering, and the fourth Tuesday of each month will be an educational/action session. For dates, times, and locations, visit hopetaskforce.org and join our mailing list. These gatherings are a place to come together, share our concerns, and collaborate on solutions. We refuse to give up on the hope that Euclid can rise above this violence and build the future we all deserve.

We know real change takes time, but we will not be patient or passive. We are holding ourselves—and those in power—accountable. We will continue to advocate for action plans and investments to reduce the number of guns on the streets, break cycles of violence, and prevention strategies for those most likely to experience violence.  

Together, we can create a future where we feel safe, supported, and empowered.

With deepest sympathy and solidarity,
Taneika Hill, Emily Holody, Pam Turos
Co-Chairs, Euclid Hope Task Force