Oxford, AL — In solemn unity and shared hope, the Oxford community gathered on Wednesday evening, April 23, for the 3rd Annual No Excuse for Child Abuse Candlelight Vigil, held at the Veteran’s Memorial Park Amphitheatre at the Oxford Civic Center. This powerful event, organized by CASA of the Cheaha Region and Evelyn Moon Children’s Services, served as a beacon of awareness and advocacy during Child Abuse Awareness Month.
The vigil drew together a wide array of community leaders, including child welfare agencies, nonprofit organizations, law enforcement officers, elected officials, and members of the general public, all standing in solidarity for one cause: to end child abuse and support those impacted by it.
The amphitheatre was illuminated with the soft glow of candles as attendees paid tribute to the lives affected by abuse and committed to fostering a safer environment for all children. This annual observance was supported by the Calhoun Cleburne Children’s Advocacy Center and the Calhoun County Department of Human Resources, whose combined efforts continue to make a significant impact in the region.
Presiding Family Court Judge Peggy Lacher addressed the crowd, recognizing the essential work of advocates and CASA volunteers. She emphasized their critical role in supporting the court system and helping children find safety, stability, and hope.
Andy Beavers, Director of the Calhoun Cleburne Children’s Center, stressed the importance of a united response. “We have a group of team members—DHR, the District Attorney’s Office, law enforcement investigators, and counselors—and when a complaint is made of sex crimes against a child, the team comes together. We start our investigation, we counsel the victim through the process, and even after the court case is over, we continue the counseling,” Beavers explained. “This event is just a great community statement on how we have to stamp out child abuse, and it starts in our own communities.”
As the flames flickered in the evening breeze, they served as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when a community comes together. “Alone we can do very little, but together we can change the lives of children,” echoed throughout the evening—a message that will continue to resonate far beyond the vigil.
The candlelight vigil was not only a night of remembrance but also a call to action, urging every individual to be vigilant, informed, and involved in the collective effort to protect children and uphold their right to a safe and nurturing childhood.
*Photos courtesy of Alex Ference, Chief Investigator for the DA’s Office
