Strides for Peace Expo Inspires Chicago to Unite Against Gun Violence

All Photos Courtesy of Ashford Media Group The fight to prevent gun violence in Chicago gained renewed momentum recently at the Second Annual Strides for Peace Gun Violence Prevention Expo. This groundbreaking event, held at UIC’s Dorin Forum, brought together a formidable coalition of scholars, youth leaders, grassroots organizations, and civic partners to strengthen the city’s collective fight for safety and equity for young people. It was also an opportunity for service providers, civic partners, public officials and community organizations to network and collaborate. “The expo became something where we could take a day and put many of these leaders from across the city together,” said Joel Hamernick, executive director for Strides for Peace, one of the principal organizers of the expo. “So, if we can create relationships and conversations, fostering trust with one another, we can strengthen organizations across the board from a collaborative standpoint.”& The theme, “Legacy of Leadership: Inspiring the Next Generation to Rise,” shaped a day of purposeful action. Attendees engaged in mindfulness exercises, participated in panel discussions and explored interactive workshops. Representatives from 140 organizations joined 60 exhibitors to network and share resources. Building Networks to Save Lives Vulnerable youth need community support, a point...