Highland Park, Illinois – A substantial donation of $1 million has been made by Jon and Mindy Gray, Highland Park natives, to aid in the construction of a permanent memorial for the seven victims of the tragic Highland Park mass shooting. This gift, announced by the City of Highland Park, demonstrates the Grays’ commitment to honoring those affected by the July 4, 2022, incident.
Jon Gray, President and Chief Operating Officer of Blackstone, expressed the couple’s deep connection to the community and their desire to contribute to the creation of a space for reflection and remembrance. This donation marks the first private contribution to the city’s initiative to establish a place of healing and remembrance for the victims and the community at large.
Highland Park Mayor Nancy Rotering emphasized the devastating impact of the shooting on the community, with many individuals still grappling with physical and emotional wounds nearly a year and a half later. The generous gift from Jon and Mindy Gray has been instrumental in moving forward with plans for a permanent memorial that will serve as a symbol of resilience for the city.
Visiting the temporary memorial in the Rose Garden, Jon and Mindy Gray, alongside Mayor Rotering and City Manager Ghida Neukirch, paid their respects to the victims and expressed their support for the city’s efforts to create a lasting tribute. Jon Gray shared personal memories of the area and underscored the importance of coming together to honor the victims and provide a space for healing.
The city’s journey towards establishing a permanent place of remembrance began with the formation of a core working group in the fall of 2023. Comprised of key community members and leaders, this group has been instrumental in conducting research, gathering feedback, and providing recommendations to the city council. The vision for a permanent memorial reflects the city’s commitment to honoring the lives lost and supporting those affected by the tragedy.
As plans progress for the permanent memorial, the temporary installation in the Rose Garden, featuring plaques designed in collaboration with family members, continues to serve as a poignant reminder of the lives lost. The community’s resilience and unity in the face of tragedy are evident in the ongoing efforts to create a meaningful and lasting tribute for all those impacted by the Highland Park mass shooting.