Page 60 - July2021

CPD officers bring National Gun Violence Awareness Day to the community
Working in partnership with numerous community organi- zations and survivors of gun violence across the city, Chicago Police Officers in nearly every district marked National Gun Violence Awareness Day on June 4 either in person or through social media.
The event, now in its seventh year, was inspired by the death of Hadiya Pendleton, who died in a 2013 shooting at just 15 years old. The day features many ways to bring attention to the epidemic of gun violence, most notably by the wearing of or-
ange, the color Pendleton wore the day she was killed. But there was much more happening that brought police and residents together to demonstrate unity around the problem that affects so many in Chicago.
Whether through efforts such as the End Gun Violence Peace March in the 15th District, messages calling to “put the guns down” or simple acts of teaching firearm safety, officers were active throughout the day.
With orange prominent throughout the day, the 3rd District held a motorcycle ride from district headquarters to Meyering Park, where officers, community activists and the families of those lost to guns spoke during festivities that also included games for kids and a balloon launch.
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5th and 11th District officers engaged the community about gun violence by distributing firearm safety locks in neighborhoods within their respective dis- tricts.