Erika Chavez Remembered
Erika’s loss sparked the City’s 2021 “Speeding Has A Name” campaign to educate drivers about the consequences of speeding.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — On the anniversary of the tragic passing of Erika Chavez, City Council Vice President Klarissa J. Peña today commemorates the "Speeding Has a Name" campaign and reaffirming the City's commitment to reducing reckless driving. The campaign was passed by City Council on April 30, 2021 with the support of City Council President Brook Bassan, former Councilors Lan Sena and Isaac Benton and signed by Mayor Tim Keller.
The “Speeding Has A Name” campaign tells the story of Erika Chavez, who was killed by a speeding driver on September 12, 2020, to highlight the devastating consequences of dangerous driving.
"When the City launched the 'Speeding Has A Name' campaign, the intent of the campaign was to change the driving culture in our city," said Councilor Peña. "This initiative was created in partnership with Erika Chavez's family to remind every driver that speeding is not a victimless crime. It puts lives at risk and shatters families. The courage of the Chavez family, who chose to share Erika's story, is at the heart of this campaign, and we are forever grateful for their partnership."
The campaign, which features a photo of Erika Chavez, has been featured in television and radio public service announcements, billboards, on buses, and across social media. The effort was initiated by Erika’s family and supported by a working group of City Councilors, including former Councilors Isaac Benton and Lan Sena, and funded by contributions from the entire City Council.
"While the City has made progress, our work is far from over," added Councilor Peña. "The Council will continue to work with the Albuquerque Police Department and our community partners to enforce speed limits and educate drivers about the dangers of reckless driving. Our goal is to ensure that no other family endures the pain of losing a loved one to this preventable tragedy. Today, we remember Erika Chavez and honor her legacy by recommitting ourselves to making our streets safer for everyone."
City Council encourages all residents to continue to support the "Speeding Has A Name" campaign and to always drive responsibly.