Chicago Religious Leaders March to Address Gun Violence Crisis
Religious leaders in Chicago gathered and marched Thursday to demand that city officials do more to curb gun violence. They expressed their frustration with Mayor Brandon Johnson’s administration, citing the alarming statistic of nearly 150 young people killed by gun violence this year alone. The group is calling on the City Council to create an Office of Gun Violence Reduction, criticizing the current strategy as ineffective.
Rally Organized by Live Free Illinois
The rally, organized by Live Free Illinois, brought together pastors and young people who marched to City Hall to raise awareness about the urgent need for meaningful action to address gun violence. Mayor Brandon Johnson’s office has not yet issued a statement on the matter. Desmon Yancy, alderman from the city’s 5th Ward, announced plans to introduce an ordinance in September that would establish a fully funded, permanent office dedicated to reducing violence, similar to initiatives in cities like New York.
Call for City Council Action
Supporters of the ordinance see it as a crucial step towards better defining and connecting city programs aimed at reducing violence, as well as creating transparency and accountability in how funds are allocated. Yancy emphasized that a portion of the city’s budget should be allocated to develop programs specifically targeting gun violence, rather than just funding the office. The group highlighted years of government discussions on the issue and urged Mayor Johnson to fulfill his campaign promises and ensure that action is taken to address the ongoing gun violence crisis in the city.
