This past Sunday, October 22nd, Melrose High School’s Red Hawk Robotics team members joined their community in the Melrose Alliance Against Violence (MAAV) annual candlelight vigil and walk. MAAV is committed to ending domestic violence, teen dating abuse, and violence through community awareness activities, education prevention programs in schools, and resources for victims of domestic violence. Red Hawk Robotics has partnered with MAAV for several years, and this partnership has brought several changes, including helping to develop Red Hawk Robotics’ own Code of Conduct. Red Hawk Robotics operates under FIRST Robotics, which has Gracious Professionalism — high quality work with respect for oneself and others — weaved throughout their very core. In addition, former captain Bridgid McCarron participated as part of the MAAV Student Action Board during her time at Melrose High School.
MAAV’s annual walk and vigil consists of a ceremony held in the middle school auditorium, where several speeches are given from MAAV leaders as well as domestic abuse victims. This year’s event was graced by a performance from local guitarist Alastair Moock and his daughter, Clio. A candlelight vigil is held for those who died from domestic violence, with each victim getting individual recognition from a member of the Melrose community. Afterwards, participants walk along the designated route, up Lynn Fells Parkway, down Main Street, eventually returning to the middle school where teams can take group photos and eat snacks.
