It was a beautiful birthday in front of Victoria Hall, but the guest of honour, a beautiful little girl wasn’t there.
There were smiles, a few laughs, a few tears, but many, many hugs for the each other and the family of Vienna Irwin who would have turned three-years-old.
Vienna tragically died after being found in a septic tank at a daycare north of Cobourg on May 25, 2023.
The event was organized by Heather Field who is a close friend of the Irwin family.
“She’s (Vienna) not here to celebrate so we thought we’d show her parents our love and support.”
Purple lighted butterflies were everywhere during the evening party that started at 7:45 p.m.
The butterflies were on posters, face paintings, buttons, cupcakes, cookies, bracelets, window storefronts and chalk drawings on the sidewalk.
They were a favourite of Vienna’s and have been a symbol for the #JusticeforVienna movement.
“It’s really, really important that that gets spread as far as possible.”
“It’s been over 10-months since Vienna passed at daycare and her parents still don’t have any reason or any answers as to what happened that day.”
“So the Justice for Vienna is to bring awareness that it is still an ongoing criminal investigation.”
The movement is constantly gaining momentum as signs are posted in most storefronts downtown and are commonly seen in vehicles, on front lawns and windows.
“I’m tired of someone walking around holding the truth and not letting her family know what happened that day. It’s something that never should have happened. It’s really important that someone get answers.”
Heather said Vienna’s parents are doing the best they can for anyone in that position.
“The love and support from the community in ways like this helps them get through.”
During the end of the evening butterfly cupcakes were handed out with candles.
After the candles were lit, the people gathered sang rendition of Happy Birthday that everyone who was there will never forget.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
