Blog Title: Honoring Voices, Celebrating Change: Mother's of Murdered Angel's Essay Contest & Awards Gala 2025

On April 12 and May 9, 2025, Mothers of Murdered Angels (MOMA) held two powerful events that uplifted voices, honored resilience, and deepened community commitment to ending gun violence. These two events—the 2025 MOMA Awards Gala and the A.M. Pate MOMA Essay Contest for 3rd–5th Graders—demonstrated that when grief is met with purpose, healing and transformation can take root.

The 2025 Mother's of Murdered Angels (MOMA) Awards Gala: A Night to Remember

On the evening of April 12, 2025, hearts gathered in unity for the Mothers of Murdered Angels Awards Gala. Held at a stunning venue filled with elegance and intention, this annual event recognized community leaders, survivors, advocates, and impact makers who have demonstrated unwavering dedication to curbing gun violence and supporting affected families.

The night was filled with emotion, inspiration, and hope. Attendees dressed in purple and gold—colors symbolic of healing and strength—were welcomed with a red carpet, a DJ, and an atmosphere full of love and remembrance.

Among the honorees were local activists, educators, faith leaders, and survivors who have used their voices and platforms to promote peace and justice. Speeches from MOMA co-founders Melinda Hamilton, Jaquita Alston, and Keisha Mackey brought tears and applause as they shared stories of loss, resilience, and transformation.

The gala also included:

• A tribute to lives lost to gun violence

• The official announcement of new initiatives and partnerships

• A live auction and fundraiser to support MOMA’s advocacy and support programs.

  
  

This celebration was not only a fundraiser but also a declaration: MOMA is here to stay, to support, and to fight for a safer, more compassionate future.

The A.M. Pate MOMA Essay Contest: Elevating Youth Voices

Just weeks later, on May 9, 2025, MOMA hosted the A.M. Pate MOMA Essay Contest Awards Ceremony, focused on empowering the youngest voices in the movement. Open to 3rd through 5th graders, the contest invited students to reflect on the topic of bullying and how they would address or prevent it in their schools and communities.

Held at Ignite Community School in Fort Worth, the awards event was filled with excited students, proud families, teachers, and community supporters. The essays submitted were honest, insightful, and deeply moving. Many of the students shared personal experiences and practical ideas for creating safer, kinder environments.

Winning essays were read aloud by the students themselves, and their powerful words reminded everyone in attendance that our youth are not only the future—they are the now.

Prizes included new bicycles, backpacks filled with school supplies, certificates of recognition, and community shoutouts. The students beamed with pride, knowing their voices mattered.

This contest served a dual purpose: it gave young people a platform for self-expression and problem-solving, and it also sparked important conversations between students, educators, and parents about violence prevention, empathy, and leadership.

Why These Events Matter

Both the MOMA Awards Gala and the A.M. Pate Essay Contest highlight what makes MOMA so powerful: its ability to blend advocacy with healing, and activism with action. While the Awards Gala uplifted those already on the frontlines of the fight against gun violence, the Essay Contest planted seeds of awareness and courage in the hearts of young people.

These events work hand in hand to strengthen MOMA’s mission of turning pain into purpose. They invite everyone—from seasoned advocates to elementary school students—to play a part in changing the culture around violence and justice.

Looking Ahead

With the success of these two events, MOMA is already looking toward the future. Plans are in place to expand the Essay Contest to more schools across Texas and beyond. The organization also hopes to make the Awards Gala a nationally recognized event that continues to honor those who turn tragedy into transformation.

As we reflect on April 12 and May 9, 2025, we see not just two events, but two powerful reminders that community, compassion, and courage can drive lasting change.

Stay connected with MOMA as we continue to advocate, support, and uplift—because every voice matters, and every life is worth fighting for.

Follow us on social media or make a donation today to be part of the movement. Together, we are turning pain into purpose.