HISTORY

A Brief History

In the fall of 2006, a small group of people living in or near Lafayette, California, decided to build a memorial for those dying in Iraq. It seemed to them that the country was blind to the terrible human cost of the war. These activists, artists and concerned citizens wanted to create a visible reminder that while life may seem normal here at home, our young people were fighting and dying half way around the world. And for every American Death there were thousand more Iraq and Afghan deaths.

The project was initiated by local contractor Jeff Heaton with the active support and dedication of the hillside property owners, Johnson and Louise Clark. With help from the Mt. Diablo Peace and Justice Center, Lamorinda Peace Group and an expanding local volunteer base, thousands of Crosses, and other Symbols (Buddhist wheels, Stars of David, Islamic Crescent, etc...) were installed on the hillside.

Eventually a sign was added at the top of the hill to reflect an accurate count of American Soldiers killed in Iraq and Afghanistan. The memorial prompted varied emotional reactions from the community. In 2008, after hearing both objecting and supporting voices, the City of Lafayette determined the memorial could remain. The sign had been regularly updated by volunteers, until 2022, when the numbers were replaced with the simple message, "Remember".

Photos by Howard Weamer

Inspiration

The Lafayette Hillside Memorial, formerly known as the Crosses of Lafayette, has endured controversy, yet, as time has passed, the public sentiment is of acceptance and gratitude for this unique site. The Memorial has evolved into an undeniable cultural asset for Lafayette and become a beloved place of reflection, community pride and an internationally known landmark.

Louise and Johnson Clark remained deeply committed to the Crosses Memorial until the day they passed. They left behind their intentions that this site should remain a Peace Memorial. In 2018, many individuals from the original group of founders, along with other members of the community passionate about preserving the memorial, formed a non-profit, the Lafayette Hillside Memorial. The small non-profit organization has been lovingly maintaining the site as well as broadening its cultural impact on the community through events, outreach to veterans, and educational programs.

Commemoration

The Crosses of Lafayette has been the site of special events each year on Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Many veterans and parents of fallen soldiers have gathered or spoken at these gatherings. There is poetry and music and respect is given to those who have died in these wars. The Lafayette Hillside Memorial continues this oral and musical tradition.

Recognition

The story of this grassroots memorial has been featured in magazines and newspapers around the world including a cover story on the New York Times. Images of the Crosses appear in the National Portrait Gallery in the Smithsonian Museum. This special site has gained worldwide recognition.