Voices for Change: A Movement Against Gun Violence

By Andrea Vargas

In a powerful gathering at Loyola University Chicago's Lake Shore Campus on April 3, the fifth Annual Community Advocacy and Violence Prevention Summit, sponsored by the Loyola Stands Against Gun Violence Committee, brought together a diverse group of leaders, activists, families, students, and allies. This summit, a pillar event of the Parkinson School of Health Sciences and Public Health, took place during National Public Health Week and emphasized the themes of protection, connection, and thriving.

Lucia Garcia, director of student affairs and registration for the Parkinson School and chair of the Loyola Stands Against Gun Violence Committee kicked off the event "Today, Loyola University Chicago gathers not merely as individuals but as a united force against the pervasive threat of gun violence," Garcia said, emphasizing the importance of the university's mission centered on social justice and the collective responsibility to advocate for healthy and equitable policies.

A highlight of the summit was remarks from U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky. Schakowsky highlighted the urgent need for gun control, pointing out that gun violence is the leading cause of death among school-age children in the U.S. She criticized the easy access to firearms and called for national legislation to address the issue, while also stressing the importance of youth voices and collective action in driving change.

A moderated conversation with keynote speaker X Gonzalez provided a compelling perspective on the role of youth in shaping gun violence prevention policies. Gonzalez, reflecting on their college experience, spoke about the necessity of a flexible, individualized education that encourages students to pursue their interests and engage in meaningful conversations. They emphasized the importance of inclusivity and intersectionality, the challenges of engaging with dissenting voices, and the impact of media coverage on gun violence. 

Gonzalez called for responsible reporting and a reevaluation of the Constitution and gun laws to address the root causes of gun violence, underscoring the role of educators in promoting safety and dismantling harmful systems. “Youth voices should be front and center in shaping gun violence prevention policies and initiatives. Their perspectives are crucial because they represent the future and are directly impacted by these issues, they said. “Including young people in the conversation ensures that policies are relevant and effective,” Gonzalez continued. "All of our voices are so important because we are the future. It's essential that we contribute to creating a safer world for generations to come.”

The summit also featured presentations from local advocates, including Olivia Brown, Milt Coronado, and Tanya Lozano Washington. Brown discussed Project Unloaded efforts to address gun violence through art and culture change, while Coronado shared his personal story and highlighted the healing power of art in communities affected by gun violence. Washington focused on the intersection of firearms and intimate partner violence, emphasizing the need for safe storage practices and awareness of warning signs.

Graduate fellows of the Loyola Stands committee underscored the importance of community involvement in gun violence prevention efforts. MPH students, Idiake Irumundomon, Zach Wilder, Tijana Nikolic, and Elizabeth DeLoreto and MD/MPH student Gabriela Fuentes called for actions such as voting, contacting representatives, and advocating for common-sense gun laws. 

Overall, the summit underscored the impact of gun violence on communities and the power of individual voices in creating change, encouraging attendees to take action and stay engaged in prevention efforts. As the event drew to a close, Garcia reminded attendees that the summit was not just a one-time event but a catalyst for ongoing dialogue, advocacy, and action. "Let us not confine our collaboration to this singular event but embrace the opportunity to extend our work beyond these walls," she urged.