On April 20, 1999, a senseless act of violence at Columbine High School killed twelve students and one teacher and injured many others. The tragedy shook the Columbine and metro Denver communities, horrified and saddened the nation, and forever changed perceptions of safety and security within a school typical of so many across America. Soon afterward, flowers, notes, poems, ribbons, stuffed animals, pictures, and other objects were brought to Clement Park in tribute to those who died, were injured, or were traumatized. From that outpouring of emotion and disbelief came the concept of a permanent public memorial near the high school to honor the innocent victims, remember those killed and injured that day, preserve a historic record of the tragedy, and deliver a message of hope for generations to come.