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Honoring the Memory of Nixzmary Brown at Von King Park
Hello, my name is Akwesi M. Asante. I am a father of seven, and in September 2023, I lost one of my daughters at the age of 43. That loss has deepened my reflections on the children we have lost too soon.
Every September, I also think of Nixzmary Brown — a bright and smiling 7-year-old girl who once played across the street from Brooklyn’s Herbert Von King Park. I remember seeing her at our Drummers Summit events (2002–2014), dancing and smiling as the rhythms filled the air. Her tragic passing in 2006 broke the hearts of many and left an imprint on me forever.
The Project: A Lasting Tribute
I am spearheading a community effort to honor Nixzmary’s memory with a lasting memorial in Von King Park — the very place she once played.
This project will:
Plant a memorial tree that will grow strong and provide shade for generations.
Place a dedication bench where people can sit, reflect, and honor her memory.
Install a plaque in her name, reminding us of the importance of protecting children.
This memorial is more than stone and wood — it is a symbol of hope, love, and vigilance. It will remind us all that every child deserves safety, care, and a future.
How Funds Will Be Used
Your generous donations will go directly toward making this memorial possible. Our estimated costs include:
Memorial Bench: $1,500 (NYC Parks Adopt-A-Bench Program)
Tree Planting: Cost TBD (NYC’s Wangari Maathai Tree Planting Program)
Memorial Plaque: $100–$200
Musicians for the dedication gathering: $300–$500
Elders’ transportation to/from the memorial: $100–$300
Community outreach & celebration ads: $100–$300
Our fundraising goal is $4000, which will allow us to cover all memorial expenses and host a community dedication ceremony.
Why It Matters
Nixzmary’s story touched an entire city and led to reforms in child protection. But beyond laws and headlines, she was a child full of life who deserved to be remembered with love.
By supporting this memorial, you will help:
✅ Keep her memory alive in the community she grew up in.
✅ Inspire vigilance and compassion to protect other children.
✅ Transform tragedy into a message of hope and resilience.
How You Can Help
Every donation, no matter the size, brings us closer to making this a reality.
Please share this campaign with others who care about children and community healing.
With Gratitude
Thank you for helping honor Nixzmary’s memory and for standing with us to protect children everywhere. Together, we can create something beautiful and lasting.
Bakinaheri (Remain in Peace),
Akwesi M. Asante
www.akwesimasante.com
Organizer