Holly Roy has faced significant challenges and changes in her life since the tragic loss of her eight-year-old son to a stray bullet in August last year. Recalling the heartbreaking incident when gunshots startled them in their North York residence, Holly recounted the moment her son, Jahvai Roy, was fatally hit by a stray bullet while they were in bed. Despite efforts to save him, Jahvai passed away at the hospital.
Subsequently, three youths were charged with first-degree murder in connection with the incident. Over the past year, Holly has been dedicated to upholding her son’s memory and actively opposing gun violence. Recently, she visited Jahvai’s gravesite on Manitoulin Island for the first time since his burial, marking a poignant moment in her journey towards acceptance and healing.
In a recent interview on CBC Radio’s Metro Morning, Holly expressed the profound impact of coming to terms with the reality of her son’s untimely death. She reflected on the emotional toll it has taken on her and her identity as a mother. Holly, who is of Anishinaabe, Ojibwe First Nation descent, emphasized the importance of remembering Jahvai’s compassion and desire to assist others as she continues to advocate against gun violence.
Following Jahvai’s tragic passing, community members rallied together to demand greater action from policymakers in addressing gun violence, a cause Holly has been actively involved in following a previous shooting incident involving her eldest son in 2019. Recognizing the lack of support for victims directly impacted by gun violence, Holly embarked on a mission to seek resources to aid her son in coping with the trauma he endured.
Through her involvement with grassroots organizations and anti-gun violence movements such as the One by One Movement and the Zero Gun Violence Movement, Holly remains committed to spreading awareness and fostering change. She draws strength from Jahvai’s memory, striving to navigate her advocacy journey with love and light, carrying her son’s spirit with her every step of the way.