The City Council presented a proclamation Tuesday evening proclaiming Oct. 12 as Tay Day in Fort Worth, honoring the life and legacy of Atatiana Jefferson on the second anniversary of her death.
Jefferson, 28, was fatally shot by a Fort Worth police officer on Oct. 12, 2019, while she played video games with her nephew. The criminal trial for that former officer is scheduled to begin next month.
The proclamation reads: “The City of Fort Worth stands in solidarity with its residents through their hardships and grief following the untimely death of Atatiana Jefferson and its impact on the community. It is important that the City of Fort Worth shows that we care about our residents, that we stand behind them through tragedies, and that we are willing to take the steps to provide support, especially with families that have lost loved ones in tragic ways. The support of the city is necessary to show families – especially those who have lost loved ones in tragedies – that they do not stand alone.”
The resolution also stated that a permanent STEM resource center for youth will be established in Fort Worth. Jefferson was pursuing a career in STEM – science, technology, engineering and math.
“Today marks two years since the tragic death of Atatiana Jefferson,” Mayor Mattie Parker said. “This is an incredibly meaningful day for our community to honor her memory and lasting legacy, celebrate the life she lived, and send our continued prayers and support to her family and friends.”
District 8 Councilmember Chris Nettles, who presented the proclamation Tuesday evening, said there will be additional efforts organized to honor Jefferson’s life.
