This story was published in partnership with Baltimore Magazine.
In early July, more than 100 people stopped by Sawmill Creek Park just across the Baltimore City line in Glen Burnie for the third annual “Aaliyah Day.” It was a good turnout, especially given the triple-digit temperatures that threatened to keep some people away.
The stifling weather didn’t stop attendees from playing basketball or entering raffles for cash, shoes, and Orioles game tickets. A DJ played upbeat music as family and friends handed out food and cold water. People chatted and exchanged quiet smiles. Many paused to look at the tribute on the black metal fence, where Aaliyah’s portrait hung alongside eight others, all young people lost to gun violence…