Mayor Declares March 1 'COVID-19 Memorial Day In Norwalk'

NORWALK, CT — Monday, and every March 1 going forward, will be known as "COVID-19 Memorial Day in Norwalk" to honor the victims and survivors of the coronavirus pandemic, Mayor Harry Rilling announced.

"We have lost 207 residents to this virus in under a year," Rilling said. "These were our friends and family and our loved ones and neighbors."

To make the occasion on Monday, at 6 p.m., Rilling asks that residents have a moment of silence wherever they are at the time.

In addition to those who have died, nearly 9,500 Norwalk residents have contracted the virus since the beginning of the pandemic.

"Let us all pause and reflect on the toll this virus has had on our community and remember those we've lost," Rilling said. "We have endured a lot this past year and the pain the virus has caused remains fresh in our hearts and minds. As we say goodbye to February and enter March with spring on the horizon, we are starting to see light at the end of the tunnel. While we must remain vigilant in our fight against this virus, let us also be hopeful and optimistic that brighter days are ahead."

Beginning on Wednesday, Rilling will host the first in a series of community Town Hall Meetings on the coronavirus vaccine. The March 3 virtual meeting will be held at 7 p.m., click here for more information.

Wednesday's meeting will feature a conversation addressing COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in communities of color. A panel of local medical experts will discuss the vaccine and offer their personal and professional opinions about its safety and effectiveness, according to officials.

The meeting is free and open to the public, who also can ask questions during the presentation.