It is now almost 15 years since our dear son died. For much of that time we have felt grief. Now more than ever, we want our son’s death to mean hope, life and opportunity for Britain’s downtrodden and underprivileged youth. Damilola lost his life because of enormous problems in this society. Whilst the work of the Damilola Taylor Trust has made a difference to many, unfortunately these problems have not been resolved and too many other lives have been lost and families tortured by losing their young children. Our son wanted to be a doctor. He was a leader and we are sure he would have been extraordinary.
Filming has begun on a new BBC drama about Richard Taylor’s fight for justice for Damilola. Wunmi Musako who plays Richard’s late wife said ‘Damilola’s smile resonates around the world’ and writer Levi David Addai said the Taylor’s story was about ‘family, fatherhood and hope’. Download the full story here: Evening Standard 21 June 2016.
Richard Taylor OBE
All young people should be allowed to make their dreams come true. We set the Trust up as a memorial to our son so that it might lead to his legacy being one of positive change in inner city communities. Now more than ever change is required and our work will continue so that the young people in these communities can live their lives free of fear and violence, with optimism for a future where options and opportunity are available. This is our vision and while we may not be able to defend the entire world as our son dreamed of doing perhaps if we can defend the young people of these communities then our quest will be a worthy one.
We are deeply grateful to our supporters all those who have supported us in our quest and continue to do so.
RICHARD TAYLOR (OBE)