25 Forever: Remembering Secoya Williams

Who Was Secoya Williams?

Secoya was a vibrant, caring, and compelling force in every room she entered. At 25, she was a bright medical assistant at the Jane Pauley Medical Clinic, known for her ability to comfort children—especially those afraid of vaccines. A natural singer and performer, her friends and loved ones called her the “karaoke queen”, lighting up stages and gatherings with her bold personality.

Beyond her talents, Secoya was deeply compassionate: she once helped a classmate in need of new clothes, a story shared lovingly by her mother during our episode.

A Community Shattered

On a night intended for celebration—just two weeks after her 25th birthday—Secoya was tragically shot in February 2022 outside an Indianapolis nightclub. The shooter, Arieal Smith, was convicted of murder, firearm possession, and unlicensed gun carrying after a three-day trial; she received a 48-year prison sentence Her sister, Ebonie Parks, was convicted of assisting and sentenced separately.

Secoya’s loss reverberated far beyond her family. Over 600 people attended her funeral, and her clinic closed in solidarity, honoring the woman who brought warmth and care to everyone she met.

From Mourning to Action: Advocacy and Change

Secoya’s mother, Marilyn Johnson, has turned her grief into advocacy. Motivated by her daughter’s legacy, she’s joined local initiatives—including Faith in Indiana—to combat gun violence in Indianapolis. Her goal?

“If I can save another parent from losing a child, that’s my goal.”

In response to community tragedy, Indianapolis passed General Ordinance 34 in July 2023, imposing stricter local gun controls—higher age limits for purchase, an assault weapons ban, and tighter licensing requirements. While state preemption limits enforcement, the ordinance marks a significant change in local policy and public support.

What’s in the Episode?

In this week’s episode, you’ll hear exclusive interviews with Marilyn, Secoya’s grandmother, and brother, captured live at Advocacy Con 2025 in Las Vegas. Their stories vividly portray Secoya’s generosity, joy, and impact, from her fierce confidence at karaoke to her unwavering kindness toward strangers.

We also delve into broader issues:

• how domestic violence intersects with gun-related deaths

• the power of community activism in policy change

• the ripple effect of one life lost too soon

Secoya Matters.

Secoya’s story is personal and powerful—and it also echoes a national crisis. In 2022, there were over 44,000 gun-related deaths in the U.S. , and incidents like Secoya’s highlight how easily lives are shattered. Yet, her mother’s advocacy highlights that change is possible—locally, through shared grief turned to action.

📲 Listen & Support

• Episode 82: Secoya Williams → https://sinspod.co/82

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