Akwesi Asante, who used to work in Herbert Von King Park, where Nixzmary often played, is calling on the city to plant a tree and install a plaque in her honor.

Nixzmary was beaten to death by her stepfather and mother in their Greene Avenue apartment in 2006, sparking widespread outrage and reforms in child protective services.

As time passes, Asante says fewer people are aware of Nixzmary’s story, and he hopes the memorial will serve as a lasting tribute.

"People have no idea, and I would like her memory to be alive here in this community," said Asante.