09/25/2026
296 backpacks. 296 names. 296 lives that should still be here.
I work in safety and security, and this project stopped me in my tracks. Procida, a graphic design major with a minor in American Studies from Phoenix, created "American Exceptionalism: Liberty & Justice For…", a memorial to every victim of mass school shootings in the United States since 1966.
She hand-sewed 296 backpacks, each embroidered with a victim's name, and arranged them into the shape of the American flag. Her aim was to turn an object tied to childhood into a symbol of memory, absence, and remembrance.
In my line of work. It's easy in this field to talk in terms of systems, statistics, and screening. This project is a powerful reminder of what all of that is actually for: the people. Every name on those backpacks was someone's child, friend, or student.
The unfinished pledge in the title asks a question none of us should look away from. Liberty and justice for… who?
Thank you, Alexandrea, for the time, care, and intention in every stitch, and for asking us to reflect on the world we're creating for future generations. Thank you also for letting me share this.
Diamond Business Services, Inc.