Harlem Community Mourns Axenia "Mama Z" Mate, Victim of Stray Bullet at Funeral

A Community's Grief

• 💔 The community gathered in Harlem for the heartbreaking funeral of Axenia Mate, a 61-year-old grandmother affectionately known as "Mama Z."
• 😔 She was tragically killed by a stray bullet last week after stepping outside her Harlem home upon hearing gunshots, mistakenly believing her grandson was in danger.

Honoring Mama Z's Legacy

• 🌟 Axenia Mate was celebrated as a pillar of the community, the first Black woman to own a bodega in New York City.
• 💖 Mourners described her as "pure love, pure joy," a devoted grandmother, trusted friend, and someone who always put others ahead of herself.
• 🎶 Local musician Catmandeue called her a "martyr" for her role in bringing the community together and her opposition to violence.

The Incident and Its Aftermath

• 💥 Surveillance video captured two young men firing gunshots at each other, leading to the stray bullet that struck Mate.
• ⚖️ One individual has been charged with second-degree murder, and another with attempted murder.

Addressing Gun Violence

• 🗣️ Reverend Al Sharpton delivered the eulogy, urging an end to violence and stating, "You do not discover your manhood by how well you can shoot."
• 📈 Mayor Adams attended the funeral, emphasizing the urgency of the moment and the need to recognize the pain caused by gun violence.
• 💬 Many mourners spoke out against the escalating gun violence, which is starting to trend higher after months of decline.

A Grandson's Tribute

• 🎤 Jerry Jordan Jr., Mama Z's grandson, expressed his love and pride, calling her his "hero and senior."