Photo Credit: Mark Myles/Facebook

By Faith Callens, Blessed By Faith Writer

This morning, the Selma community is mourning the tragic loss of Mark Myles, a devoted mentor, servant leader and tireless advocate who fought for the lives of the city’s young people through community outreach and nonviolence intervention.

Myles was the Community Outreach Manager for the Selma Center for Nonviolence, Truth and Reconciliation (SCNTR) organization where he conducted workshops on conflict resolution and nonviolence efforts in schools like Ellwood Christian Academy and RB Hudson. Through the mission of his role, he aimed to bridge racial divides and empower youth to create positive change in Selma, drawing inspiration from the historical civil rights movement, according to the Al overview provided by Google.

Like Google, The city of Selma released a statement this morning recognizing Myles’ localized effort for change, indicating that he dedicated his life to reaching both young men and young women, meeting them where they were and striving to help them to rise and see what they could become.

“Mark was doing the work he loved,” said Selma Mayor Johnny Moss,III. “Mentoring, guiding, and protecting our youth. His life and service mattered deeply, and his loss leaves a profound void in our community. On the behalf of the City of Selma, I extend my deepest condolences to Mark’s family, friends and all who were touched by his life. We also hold in our hearts the many young people whose lives were changed because Mark showed up for them with compassion, consistency, and care.”

Moss continued in the city’s statement by saying, ” Violence cannot be allowed to define us. The greatest way to honor Mark Myles is to carry forward his mission and the vision of the Selma Center for Nonviolence, Truth and Reconciliation, choosing peace, affirming dignity, and continuing the work of building a beloved community.”

In the city’s closing statement, Moss said for Myles to rest in power and that he considers him a champion for the children of Selma.

“And a blessing to Selma,” Moss said. “His legacy will live on.”

The city of Selma said that they are actively praying for all that are hurting behind the tragic loss of Myles.