Community holds vigil for 5-year-old Nefertiti Harris, who was killed by her mother

SYRACUSE, N.Y. (WSYR-TV) – A touching and emotional memorial honoring Nefertiti Harris, not far from where the five-year-old’s body was found.

“We wanted to really celebrate her life and that she had a life and that she was important, and regardless of how she died, she had value and worth,” Tonya Collins, a member of the community, said.

The gathering makes an impact bigger than just remembering the loss of Neffy.

“It’s a testament to not only to her but to every other 10-year-old girl, five-year-old girl, 11-year-old boy, 13-year-old boy, you know, young adults. It’s a testament to all of them that all lives matter. All lives matter,” Collins said.

Children are children. And children can’t protect themselves, and people here say others must step up to help them.

“We need to put our minds together, and we need to come up with some solutions, and not just point the finger, but actually how can I be an answer or solution to the problem and society today,” Collins said.

“Well, I think it’s because of the lack of knowledge of who we are as individuals. We have to educate ourselves, what’s right to do, and what’s wrong. And it starts with families. It starts with families and then in community,” Anna Morris added.

And understanding the power love can have.

“Individuals need to know that there is hope through love, the power of love. It’s real. It’s so real until whatever goes on in your mind. And if you act on the power of love instead of hate, this baby would be here with us,” Morris said.

There were close to 100 people at the vigil, all showing their love for Neffy.

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