The Mothers of Murdered Columbus Children (MOMCC) organization, based in Columbus, Ohio, is a poignant testament to the enduring strength and resilience of individuals who have experienced the devastating loss of a child to violence. Founded in 2020 by Founder Malissa Thomas-St. Clair alongside Co-Founder Karla Harris, the organization is a non-profit focused on Light and Love. The organization aims to provide a safe space for mothers and families to share their journey, collaborate with other organizations to provide online resource services, and engage consistently with the community to further the mission. With a mission rooted in compassion and empowerment, MOMCC has grown to become a vital resource for families navigating the tumultuous aftermath of such tragedies.
At the heart of MOMCC mission is Pain 2 Purpose and Learning 2 Live. The organization recognizes that the journey through grief is not a solitary one. Members, many of whom have faced unimaginable pain, come together to share their experiences, offer comfort, and provide a safe space for those who may feel isolated in their grief. Through regular meetings, peer support groups, and community events, MOMCC fosters a sense of belonging and understanding among its members. This communal aspect of healing is crucial, as it allows individuals to connect with others who truly understand their pain, thereby alleviating feelings of loneliness and despair.
In addition to emotional support, MOMCC is dedicated to advocacy and raising awareness about the issues surrounding violent crime. The organization actively engages in public education campaigns to shed light on the impact of homicide on families and communities. Through outreach and community events, MOMCC are actively trying to curb the violence in the city. You can find this group of Columbus women normally dressed in orange and camouflage all over the city trying to spread awareness to decrease the homicide rate.
MOMCC in partnership with the Columbus Division of Police had a press release in January 2024 launching Operation Under Triple Digits in response to citywide violence. In 2023, the city of Columbus had 148 homicides. Operation Under Triple Digits seeks to bring homicides in Columbus to under 100. This is a citywide collaborative initiative that will use crime data to drive intentional decision making of community organizations, residents, local media, Faith based networks, businesses, elected officials, corporations, law enforcement and all stakeholders that desire to reduce crime and rebuild a safer Columbus. “We’re all on the same page,” said Chief Bryant. “We all have that same mission. We want to see this violence in our city reduced or stopped completely.”
MOMCC PRESS RELEASE
MOMCC just had their biggest event of the year, celebrating when the group was founded in 2020. In the last four years their mission has reached audiences around the world. The group’s relentless pursuit to create change has truly turned into a movement. Thomas-St. Clair said “I believe that everyone was just ready, ready to start doing something different in a positive direction. And we’re, we’re happy to be the trailblazers.” “What’s working this summer is being intentional about where the hot spots are,” Thomas-St. Clair said. “So, not waiting to go to those hot spots, not waiting to reach the demographic. We are seeing these violent occurrences. We are reaching out.” She also stated, “this is not a club any of them asked to be apart of, it’s a movement they are proud to be apart of.” Bing News By Anna Hoffman
Since its inception in 2020, MOMCC has witnessed the increasing rates of homicide in Columbus. According to local law enforcement statistics: In 2020, Columbus recorded approximately 175 homicides, marking a notable rise compared to previous years. The numbers continued to increase in subsequent years, with 2021 seeing around 205 homicides. In 2022 homicides dropped to around 131 but increased again in 2023 to about 148 homicides. So far this year homicides are down 58% as of April compared to the same period last year, one of the largest drops of any major U.S. city with publicly available data. Deputy Chief Smith Weir, who leads the criminal investigation subdivision, told Axios he and other police leaders review these numbers every day, looking for trend lines. Weir is glad to see noticeable change so far this year. Weir also credited the community for “stepping up” especially the group Mothers of Murdered Columbus Children.
The Mothers of Murdered Columbus Children organization plays a vital role in addressing the emotional and social repercussions of homicide in the Columbus community. Through advocacy, community support, and awareness raising efforts, Malissa Thomas-St. Clair and the organization aim to create a safer environment for families and reduce the numbers of lives lost to violence. In addition to their support and advocacy efforts, MOMCC also emphasizes the importance of remembrance. The organization honors the lives of the children lost to violence, allowing families to come together and celebrate the memories of their loved ones. These events serve as a powerful reminder of the lives that have been tragically cut short and the ongoing impact of violence on families and communities. By creating opportunities for remembrance, MOMCC not only honors the deceased but also reinforces the commitment to advocate for change in their names.