MILWAUKEE — It’s been 20 years since Alexis Patterson, who was 7-years-old at the time, went missing on her way to school. 

Alexis Patterson’s family gathered at Hi-Mount Community School in Milwaukee Tuesday. It was Patterson’s elementary school and the last place she was headed before she went missing in 2002. 

Her mother, Ayanna Patterson, said she believes Alexis Patterson is still alive. 

“I’m going to continue to keep her memory going,” said Ayanna Patterson. “Every day, until she comes home.” 

FBI Milwaukee tweeted Tuesday morning that anyone with information on this case should contact Milwaukee police. They included an age progressed photo of Alexis Patterson. 

Family members held signs at Tuesday’s gathering with the message, “Hear our voices.” 

“'Hear our voices' is in honor of Alexis and dedicated to all missing children,” said Ayanna Patterson. 

Ayanna Patterson said she wants to continue to raise awareness not just for Alexis Patterson but for all children, and to encourage other parents in her shoes. 

She said she’s thankful for the support of her family and the community that have stuck beside her and carried the same hope for decades. 

“I want to tell the community, the one’s that’s down for us and honest, that I love you,” she said. 

After so many years, she said her hope remains so strong for one reason. 

“You are connected to your child,” said Ayanna Patterson. “No one is connected to their child but the person who had that baby.” 

She said that connection is what keeps her going. 

She shared a message for Alexis Patterson. 

“Come home baby,” she said. 

That is a mother’s plea, as Ayanna Patterson continues to wait and hope that Alexis Patterson finds her way home.