‘A force for peace.’ Anita Franklin, activist against gun violence in Lexington, dies
Anita Franklin, a dedicated activist against gun violence in Lexington after the 2014 shooting death of her 21-year-old son, has died, according to a statement from her family.
Her son, Antonio Franklin, was an innocent bystander who was shot and killed at Duncan Park in 2014. After his death, Anita Franklin worked tirelessly to increase awareness of the effects of gun violence in Lexington.
Franklin’s children, Laneshia Conner and Ricardo Franklin, released the following statement:
“We appreciate all the kindness and support from everyone. Our mother was loved and respected by many. She wanted to give back to those less fortunate and she loved the neighborhood in which she grew up. She made it her responsibility to make it better for everyone. Please be respectful of the family at this time.”
The cause of her death has not been released.
In the years since her son’s death, Anita Franklin spoke publicly against gun violence, organized marches and events, and worked alongside organizations like Moms Demand Action Kentucky.
“Her passing leaves a huge hole in the heart of MOMS DEMAND and the Bluegrass community,” said Kathi Crowe, the Moms Demand legislative liaison for Lexington. “Anita was a force for peace. She worked tirelessly for MOMS and other organizations promoting love and peace in our communities. Our hearts are broken.”
Over the last year, Anita Franklin was working with the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office in community outreach.
Anita Franklin also was a member of the “Survivors Council,” which advises the Kentucky Office of the Attorney General.
Gov. Andy Beshear, who was the state’s attorney general before being elected governor, said in a statement Monday that he and his wife joined the “survivor community” in sending prayers to the family and friends of Anita Franklin.
“Anita ... dedicated her life to advocating on behalf of survivors of homicide and to seeking an end to violence,” Beshear said in the statement. “She has left a lasting impact on our state and we mourn the loss of such a passionate, tireless community leader. ”
The Lexington Police Department extended its condolences Monday in a Facebook post, saying she was “in a better place with Antonio by her side.”
Lexington Police Chief Lawrence Weathers released the following statement:
“Our Lexington community, as well as our state, has suffered a great loss. Anita Franklin was someone who, through tragedy, brought hope and light into the world of those who found themselves suffering from the effects of crime.
“Anita became a voice for those who are survivors and those who fight for change. She worked tirelessly to end violence and suffering for us all. She gave and gave until the very end. Anita was more than my friend. We grew up together. We knew each other before either of us grew into the lives we attained. Her courage and strength made her special and keeps her special in my heart. She taught me what true dedication was all about. She was the personification of selflessness.”
Chris Ford, who is now Lexington’s Commissioner of Social Services, served as the councilmember for the 1st District of the Lexington Fayette Urban County Council when Anita Franklin’s son was killed. Since then he worked closely with her to organize marches and events, and in her role as a member of the advisory board for the Charles Young Center.
“In the midst of unthinkable personal tragedy, Anita Franklin courageously led the charge to help bring healing to communities across Lexington by fostering peace, promoting neighborhood unity, and combating the devastating impacts of gun violence,” Ford said. “Anita had an unwavering commitment to serving, particularly for our youth. She was both focused and fearless, in her pursuit of justice and advocacy for safety. Anita’s passing leaves a huge void in our community, and I extend my deepest condolences to her family and friends.”
Councilmember James Brown, who worked alongside Anita Franklin and at one point ran against her for his seat for the 1st District on the Lexington Fayette Urban-County Council, said her death was a loss for the community.
“Our community mourns the loss of one of our most dedicated and tireless advocates in Anita Franklin,” Brown said. “She was a daughter, a mother and neighbor who turned the tragedy of losing her son Antonio (Tony) Franklin to gun violence into a movement that is felt throughout our city.”
This story was originally published February 24, 2020 at 3:20 PM.
