A Tragic Loss on Culture Night 2020
Bryndís Klara Birgisdóttir was only seventeen when she lost her life following a stabbing incident during Culture Night in 2020. To honor her memory, a memorial fund was established shortly after her untimely death. The fund aims to preserve her legacy and promote safety and well-being for young people in Iceland.
The Memorial Fund’s Purpose and Impact
The Bryndís Klara Memorial Fund was created to ensure that her passing was not in vain. As Birgir Karl Óskarsson, her father, stated, “It was just a few days after she passed that we founded the fund. We felt that losing Bryndís should not be for nothing, and that her sacrifice should lead to something meaningful.” Iðunn Eiríksdóttir, her mother, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of turning tragedy into a force for good.
The fund’s first disbursement was announced on Bryndís Klara’s birthday, granting support to five projects aimed at protecting children from violence and fostering empathy and love. “To prevent such a catastrophe from happening again,” Birgir added. The family’s efforts have indeed kept Bryndís Klara’s name alive, recognized even when she was posthumously voted Person of the Year on Rás 2 during the last Christmas.
Domino’s Charity Pizza Initiative
In support of the memorial fund, Domino’s has launched its charity pizza for the 12th time, with all proceeds going to the fund. Since 2013, the initiative has raised 65 million ISK for worthy causes. Bryndís Klara herself worked at Domino’s part-time while attending school, and her parents have expressed gratitude for the company’s enduring support.
The charity pizza, created by chef Hrefna Rós Sætran, is available until April 10th. Additionally, pink aprons with the memorial fund’s name and logo, a nod to Bryndís Klara’s favorite color, will be sold until April 13th to further support the cause.
Community Support and Leadership
The memorial fund is supported by notable figures, including President of Iceland, Halla Tómasdóttir, as its patron. The board comprises individuals dedicated to the fund’s mission, such as Guðrún Inga Sívertsen, principal of the Commercial College of Iceland, and Guðni Már Harðarson, a pastor at Lindakirkja. Also serving on the board are Dóra Guðrún Guðmundsdóttir, head of public health at the Directorate of Health, and Bryndís Klara’s parents.
“This is wonderful people,” Iðunn remarked about the board, expressing deep appreciation for those who have contributed to the fund and supported them during their grief. Birgir added, “Yes, and in such diverse ways.”
A Legacy of Love and Resilience
Despite the profound sorrow that remains just seven months after her passing, the family finds solace in the impact of the memorial fund. “It’s a nightmare and a sacrifice that must lead to good,” Iðunn stated. The family is grateful for the overwhelming support they have received, which has been instrumental in their ongoing journey to honor Bryndís Klara’s memory.
The tragic loss of Bryndís Klara Birgisdóttir has sparked a movement for change, underscoring the importance of community support and collective action. Her legacy lives on through the memorial fund, inspiring efforts to create a safer and more compassionate society for young people in Iceland.