Minneapolis, Minnesota – A vibrant two-story home in south Minneapolis serves as a bittersweet sanctuary for Caitlin Angelica, filled with cherished memories of her late partner, August Golden. The home is adorned with Golden’s favorite records, while Polaroids capturing their joyful moments together illuminate the space, accompanied by fairy lights. The lingering sorrow from the tragic Nudieland mass shooting that claimed Golden’s life eight months ago still weighs heavily on Angelica’s heart, as she recalls standing by his side during his final moments on that fateful summer night.
In the aftermath of the shooting, an outpouring of support from the community enveloped Angelica, as friends and neighbors gathered around her, offering comfort, sustenance, and solidarity in mourning the loss of Golden and the trauma inflicted by the attack. The punk and queer communities in Minneapolis united to provide solace to each other amidst a backdrop of heightened anxiety over safety in public spaces, compounded by the lingering presence of the unidentified shooters.
The recent announcement of the arrest of two teens in connection with the Nudieland shooting by Hennepin County officials has evoked mixed emotions in Angelica. While the news of the arrests signifies a step towards justice, Angelica grapples with conflicting feelings about the potential consequences for the young perpetrators. The teenagers, one now 18 and the other a minor, face charges of murder and assault, sparking a broader conversation within the punk community about the complexities of seeking retribution through the criminal justice system.
Music has been Angelica’s anchor in navigating the grief following Golden’s untimely death, with his guitars serving as a tangible link to his spirit. Through music, Angelica has honored Golden’s memory by composing songs, releasing a tape, and embarking on a tour to return his belongings to his family in California. The power of community support and the cathartic nature of music have enabled Angelica to find moments of beauty amidst the overwhelming sorrow.
As Angelica and her community continue to grapple with the aftermath of the Nudieland tragedy, they reflect on the broader implications of gun violence and the complexities of pursuing justice in a system plagued by systemic issues. The discussions surrounding the arrests of the two teens serve as a poignant reminder of the multifaceted nature of healing, forgiveness, and the pursuit of closure in the wake of senseless violence. Through it all, Angelica remains steadfast in her commitment to honoring Golden’s legacy through music and community solidarity.