The recent death of my godson, Christion Tucker, has left a gaping hole in my heart and a renewed sense of urgency in my mission. Christion, a young man full of life and promise, was shot and killed in August, just two weeks before he was set to begin working with me at Project H.O.O.D., the non-profit I founded to combat violence and create opportunities in Chicago’s South Side. His death was senseless, a tragedy that underscores the grim reality of violence that plagues our community.
Christion was not just a statistic; he was a vibrant young man with a bright future ahead of him. He came from a good family, was passionate about music, and had a kind heart that drew people to him. He was the kind of young person who could have made a real difference in the world. His death is a stark reminder of the devastating impact of violence, not just on individuals, but on entire communities.
Christion’s death is not an isolated incident. It is a reflection of the daily struggles faced by too many young people in Chicago’s South Side. We live in a neighborhood known for its violence, a place where the name ‘O Block’ has become synonymous with danger. My heart aches for the families who have lost loved ones to violence, and I am determined to help create a safer and more hopeful future for our community.
I met Christion after another tragedy in his family, the death of his 15-year-old brother Chauncy in a car accident. I tried to be a source of support for him and his mother, Shenee Benson, during this difficult time. Christion and I formed a deep connection, one that felt organic and destined. When Shenee asked me to be his godfather, I was honored. Now, I feel nothing but profound loss and a heavy weight of grief.
Christion’s death has forced me to confront the question of whether I could have done more to protect him. I know how dangerous our neighborhood can be, and I worry if I wasn’t vigilant enough. But I also know that you can’t shield children from the realities of the world. Despite the challenges, Christion remained hopeful and focused on his future. He finished high school, went to junior college, and played basketball. He had a bright spirit and a contagious energy that made him a beloved member of our community. He was eager to contribute to Project H.O.O.D. and help others achieve their dreams.
As I grapple with the pain of Christion’s loss, I know that I cannot give up. His death has strengthened my resolve to continue the work that I do. I am committed to carrying Christion’s voice with me as I mentor young people, helping them pursue their dreams and overcome the challenges they face. Even though he is gone, his spirit will live on in the work we do to build a better future for our community. His life, despite its tragic end, will have meaning, and I will make sure that his memory is a source of inspiration and hope for generations to come.
