Advocates of the new legislative proposal are calling for a collaborative framework among schools, law enforcement, and healthcare facilities to monitor and address potential child abuse cases.
STILESVILLE, Ind. — Residents of Stilesville, Indiana, came together on Saturday night for a heartfelt vigil to honor the memory of 11-year-old Oaklynn Vazquez, who tragically passed away in February.
The emotional gathering took place at the Stilesville Christian Church, where attendees lit candles in remembrance of Vazquez. Her aunt, Victoria Jines, described the candles as symbols of the brightness and joy Oaklynn brought into their lives.
Jines is championing a legislative initiative, named “Oaklynn’s Law” in her niece’s memory, aimed at safeguarding individuals from abuse.
“Oaklynn’s Law embodies a pledge,” Jines stated. “A pledge to ensure safety, to uphold accountability, and, crucially, to recognize that even the quietest voice, a child’s voice, can drive significant change.”
Vazquez’s life ended at her home, and her father along with her stepmother now face charges of neglect of a dependent resulting in death.
Ashley Cox helped organize the vigil and push for new legislation. She said there should be a shared system between police, hospitals and schools to track potential child abuse.
“No child should ever go through this,” Cox said. “A little girl was silenced, and we need to be the voice for her, and this happened in our backyard, and to ensure that this doesn’t happen again.”
Organizers said people from several surrounding communities came to the vigil.
“It’s very sad that the reason why it had to happen, but I love seeing everybody come out, and I thank every single one of them for being here tonight,” organizer Amber Cottey said.
Among the crowd, one color stood out.
“We’re remembering her with the orange ribbons of her birth month and just to help the community heal,” said Lisa Smith, who helped with the vigil.
“To my niece, Oaklynn, you are loved beyond words, and you will never be forgotten,” Jines said. “Through this law, your light will continue to shine in the lives of countless others.”
There are plans to create a park bench to memorialize Oaklynn.
Stilesville is approximately 30 miles southwest of downtown Indianapolis.
