A Community United: Thousands Gather at UNC-Chapel Hill to Honor Deah, Yusor, and Razan
Thousands of students, faculty, and community members gathered at UNC-Chapel Hill to honor and remember the lives of Deah Barakat, Yusor Abu-Salha, and Razan Abu-Salha in a moving vigil of unity, love, and remembrance. The event, held on campus, brought together people from all walks of life, standing in solidarity with the families and friends of the three victims of a tragic hate crime.
A Night of Reflection and Remembrance
The vigil was more than just a gathering—it was a powerful statement of resilience, faith, and the strength of community. Candles illuminated the night as attendees shared prayers, memories, and messages of hope, reaffirming the values that Deah, Yusor, and Razan embodied—service, education, and kindness.
Speakers from across universities, faith communities, and local government addressed the crowd, sharing heartfelt tributes and emphasizing the importance of unity in the face of tragedy.
Voices from the Vigil
Prominent figures and close friends took the stage to honor the legacies of Our Three Winners:
???? Shamira Lukomwa – President of the UNC-Chapel Hill Muslim Student Association
???? Brian Swift – President of the UNC School of Dentistry Class of 2017
???? Ali Sajjad – President of the N.C. State University Muslim Student Association
???? Ahmad Mosabbeh – UNC-Chapel Hill Class of 2016
???? Chancellor Carol L. Folt – UNC-Chapel Hill
???? Chancellor Randy Woodson – N.C. State University
???? Mayor Mark Kleinschmidt – Chapel Hill Mayor
???? Imam Abdullah Antepli – Duke University Muslim Chaplain
???? Dr. Omid Safi – Duke University Islamic Studies Center
Alongside these community leaders, friends and family members spoke from the heart, recalling stories of love, laughter, and service that defined Deah, Yusor, and Razan.
???? Farris Barakat, Deah’s brother, shared a moving tribute, calling for compassion and action in honor of his loved ones.
???? Omar AbdelBaky & Imad Ahmad, close friends of Deah, reflected on his generosity and drive to help others.
???? Yasmine Inaya, Deema Al-Ghandour, and Doha Hindi, dear friends of Razan, spoke about her vibrant spirit and artistic passion.
???? Nada Salem, Amira Ata, Rana Odeh, and Rewan Goda, friends of Yusor, shared stories of her kindness, leadership, and dedication to her faith.
A Lasting Legacy
As the evening came to a close, the message was clear: Deah, Yusor, and Razan’s legacy will not be forgotten. Their commitment to service, faith, and community will continue to inspire countless individuals worldwide.
The vigil was not just about remembrance—it was a call to action. The outpouring of love and unity reaffirmed the need to address hate, uplift communities, and continue the charitable work that Our Three Winners were so passionate about.
Their light will never fade.
