Stony Brook University held a vigil Thursday night in remembrance of the the Ecuadorian immigrant who was killed in a brutal hate crime attack 10 years ago in Patchogue.

The vigil began with a moment of silence for Marcelo Lucero.

His brother, Joselo Lucero, turned his family's tragedy into advocacy for improved treatment of immigrants.

The vigil featured the screening of documentary titled "Deputized: Como Pudo Pasar." The film tells the story of Marcelo's death and the factors believed to have influenced seven teenagers to attack and kill him. Documentary producer Susan Hagedorn says the crime was steeped in racial prejudice learned at a young age.

Organizers say given the current national climate of division and distrust of immigrants, the vigil was more important than ever to promote understanding of cultural differences.

A discussion and question-and-answer session followed the screening. Many in the audience were in grade school when Marcelo's death sent shock waves across the nation. But they say they learned a valuable lesson about tolerance at the vigil.

Joselo Lucero says he's hopeful the future of America will embrace diversity.