Minneapolis, Minnesota – In the heart of south Minneapolis, Caitlin Angelica’s vibrant two-story home stands as a living tribute to her late partner, August Golden, a talented 35-year-old musician. Surrounding her are the remnants of Golden’s presence – his favorite records lined up on shelves, Polaroids capturing his smile interspersed with mementos near her bed, illuminated by twinkling fairy lights. The weight of grief still lingers eight months after the tragic Nudieland mass shooting claimed Golden’s life and left six others wounded. Angelica vividly recalls standing helplessly by Golden during his final moments in the backyard that fateful summer night.
As she navigates the aftermath of the shooting, Angelica finds solace in the outpouring of support from the community. Hundreds have come together to offer comfort, sharing meals, music, and kindling a fire outside her home to commemorate Golden’s memory and mourn the senseless violence that shattered their sanctuary. The punk and queer communities in Minneapolis have united in solidarity, yet a lingering sense of unease persists, fueled by the fear of potential threats still at large.
Despite the recent arrest of two teenagers in connection with the shooting, Angelica grapples with conflicting emotions. The suspects, one of whom was a minor at the time of the incident, may face legal repercussions pending the prosecutors’ decision on whether to charge them as adults. While the arrests offer a semblance of closure for some, Angelica finds little comfort in the notion of punitive justice, recognizing the complex societal roots of such tragedies.
Nudieland, once a vibrant hub for the local punk scene, holds a special place in Golden’s legacy. The house, affectionately named as a play on its predecessor, D-Land, served as a creative haven where artists congregated and lived for over a decade. For Angelica and Golden, their shared love for music – spanning genres from punk to folk, country, soul, and reggae – fostered a bond that transcended beyond the realms of their musical pursuits.
Music emerges as a healing force for Angelica, a channel through which she processes her grief and honors Golden’s memory. Strumming his guitars and taking the stage at memorials across different cities, she finds solace in the melodies that once connected them. In the wake of his passing, Angelica penned songs that speak to the profound impact Golden had on her life, culminating in a recent musical release and a forthcoming tour to California in honor of her late partner.
As the community grapples with the implications of the arrests and the broader issues of gun violence and justice, Angelica underscores the need for nuanced conversations and compassionate understanding. Recognizing the inherent complexities of the situation, she advocates for a holistic approach to healing that extends beyond punitive measures. Amidst the sorrow and introspection, Angelica finds strength in the unwavering support of her community, embodying resilience in the face of tragedy.