The City of Half Moon Bay was forever changed by the tragic loss of seven Chinese and Mexican farmworkers in a devastating mass shooting on January 23, 2023. In the wake of this tragedy, the community has been seeking ways to heal and honor the lives of those affected. To commemorate their legacy of agricultural work and their profound impact on the community, the City selected three consultants to submit designs for a permanent memorial at Kitty Fernandez Park. CALA is honored to be one of those finalists chosen.
Our proposed design transforms the park into a space that honors those lost, supports emotional healing, and recognizes the invaluable contributions of farmworkers. Reflecting on the tireless nature of farmwork, the design was divided into three distinct zones, sunrise, daytime, and sunset, to symbolize the daily rhythm of farmworkers who rise with the sun and continue until it sets. This layout offers a space for reflection, healing, and connection, while also celebrating the endurance and resilience of those who work the land.
Key features include bookend plazas with fountains symbolizing sunrise and sunset, a moon gate to honor the contributions of Chinese farmworkers, bronze sculptures depicting the workers’ role in the seed-to-table process, a plaza for remembrance ceremonies and public events, and an intimate garden with seven memorial boulders for the victims, plus an eighth representing hope for the survivors.
At this time the three finalist proposals are being viewed by the selection panel and the public and we are all still awaiting word from the City on which design will be chosen. Regardless of the outcome, it has been truly great to witness the collaboration of CALA’s internal team Dania, Alice, and Izzy, who wholeheartedly embraced the opportunity to contribute, however small, to the healing journey of the Half Moon Bay community.
