The January 8th Memorial
Congressman Ron Barber - Victim
Symbols by artist Rebeca Méndez
Disability Rights
Caregiver / A full life for all / Director of the Arizona Division of Developmental Disabilities
Before becoming a congressman Ron spent 32 years as the regional, then state director of the Arizona Division of Developmental Disabilities. His lifework was to have individuals with disabilities be able to live a full life, in communities, rather than separated from them. So that those outside of the norm would have the same chance at the pursuit of a dignified life, no one to be cast aside, to be part of our rich diversity, and to be seen and respected.
Justice Scale
Lifelong advocate for equity and equality through social policy
Ron has been a lifelong advocate for equity and equality through social justice. As a student at the University of Arizona he was involved in the civil rights battle and decided he wanted to do right in the world and make a difference through the pursuit of fair and inclusive social policy.
Celtic Tree of Life
Irish origin / Civility, respect and understanding
Born in England the year World War II ended, Ron’s family origins are Irish. The Celtic Tree of Life represents the balance and harmony in nature. To the Celts, the Tree of Life symbol meant wisdom, strength and a long life. It is a life-giving tree created to enhance and perpetually sustain the physical life of humanity.
Bass Guitar
Music is greatest passion / Healing power / Concert organizer
On their honeymoon to San Francisco during its Summer of Love in 1967 Ron and Nancy witnessed concerts of the Grateful Dead, Janis Joplin and Jefferson Airplane. A summer later in London they saw the Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan and The Doors perform. Music is the calming, healing and informing element of their lives, where Ron always gravitates toward following the bass player, and the rhythmic energy of the bassline. After the shooting Ron and Nancy organized a concert with acts such as Ozomatli, Crosby Nash, Alice Cooper and Jackson Browne.
Peace Sign
A life devoted to giving, caring, compassion, love and service
After the shooting Ron created the Fund for Civility, Respect and Understanding to promote the ability for society to reach across the aisle and find a way to common ground where we can work together. Giving, caring, love, compassion and service are the values Ron and Nancy hold dearest in their drive to affect a world of peace.
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