Every year, about 20 people die in traffic collisions in Seattle. Another 150 people are seriously injured, often resulting in life-changing health issues. And for every one of these victims and survivors, there is a community of loved ones whose lives are changed, too.

That’s why Seattle Neighborhood Greenways is hosting Seattle’s memorial for World Day of Remembrance Sunday at the Impact Hub in Pioneer Square.

The organization wants the event this year to focus on creating a healing space for people impacted by injury or death on our streets, said Executive Director Gordon Padelford. Considering the scale of how many lives are impacted by traffic collisions, there is a lot of healing to be done.

Our society tells people that traffic collisions are just “accidents,” like they or a loved one simply won some kind of terrible lottery. But this is just a story we tell ourselves so it is easier to continue with our destructive car culture. Because truly changing how people and goods move around our city just seems like too heavy a lift.

But ask any room of people for a show of hands if they or someone they love has been killed or seriously injured in a traffic collision, and nearly every hand will go up. This is not OK.

More details from SNG:

Join us on the afternoon of World Day of Remembrance for a community memorial gathering for those impacted by traffic violence. There are an average of 20 lives lost and 150 lives altered by major injuries each year on Seattle’s streets. But these statistics don’t share the story of a person’s life, of the way that a crash can effect a family, a friend group, and a community. If you or a member of your community has been impacted by traffic violence, we welcome you to this space for a community moment of remembrance. This event is free, please RSVP. Sunday, Nov 18, 2:00 – 3:30 pm

Impact Hub Seattle (Pioneer Square) 3rd Floor We will be in the 3rd floor learning space with snacks and beverages. If you are interested in learning more information about an ongoing healing circle or other support, please contact [email protected].