JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – An initiative in Jackson will focus on addressing gun violence.
The social action involving student leaders with the Jackson State University (JSU) Votes group birthed the Girls Against Gun Violence coalition two years ago. Today, those members met at Jackson City Hall with a plan of action.
The mission of Girls Against Gun Violence is to assist law enforcement in developing innovative ways to combat gun violence while improving societal relationships within stricken communities.
“Originally, this group of students began fighting voter apathy and voter antipathy until a socio-political issue plagued them. And that was my opportunity to explain. This is why I’m teaching you why voting is important. Because the people that are on the ballot to vote for serve civilly can help you devise solutions to this problem,” said Jacobi Grant, an adjunct professor at JSU.
The organization has developed partnerships that expand throughout the capital city.
“As mayor, my top priority is the safety of our residents, especially our youth. We must be proactive and creative in our coming up with solutions. Due to Mississippi’s open carry laws, access to guns is a contributing factor to crime in Jackson, Mississippi. So, this event aims to foster healing, understanding and practical solutions for our community,” said Jackson Mayor John Hohrn.
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An initiative in Jackson will focus on addressing gun violence. (WJTV) -
An initiative in Jackson will focus on addressing gun violence. (WJTV) -
An initiative in Jackson will focus on addressing gun violence. (WJTV) -
An initiative in Jackson will focus on addressing gun violence. (WJTV) -
An initiative in Jackson will focus on addressing gun violence. (WJTV)
The Girls Against Gun Violence formed a series of Labor Day weekend events called “Nights of No Violence.”
Friday, August 29
- One Night in Vegas: Glitz, Glam, & No Guns Gala
- Time: 7:30 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.
- Location: Jackson State University Student Center, 1400 John R. Lynch St.
- Features: Live music, free food, roulette with prizes, card and board games, and positive engagement between youth and law enforcement in a Gatsby-themed environment.
Sunday, August 31
- Sunday Brunch & Culture Discussion
- Time: 12:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
- Location: Mississippi Civil Rights Museum, 222 North St #2205
- Includes: A museum tour highlighting the history of violence against minorities, followed by a community brunch and dialogue on reducing self-inflicted violence in African American communities, with support from faith-based institutions.
Plans for additional events lead into the following year, including a discussion tour within the Jackson Public School District (JPS).
“We are hoping that this initiative will happen all around the world. We’re hoping that this will be the start for this initiative to create on to other campuses in other communities. Gun violence is not only in Jackson, it’s all over the world. So, we’re hoping that everyone will come together and see this as a jumpstart to that initiative,” said Angel Edwards, a JSU student and member of Girls Against Gun Violence.
Support services will be available to those who attend.