June is Gun Violence Awareness Month, and the first Friday marks the start of “Wear Orange” weekend.
The tradition began with Hadiya Pendleton, a 15-year-old shot and killed outside her Chicago high school in 2013 by another teenager who believed he was firing at rival gang members.
Pendleton’s friends began wearing orange on her birthday, June 2, every year to honor her legacy. Their gesture quickly grew into a national movement.
The numbers behind the movement are stark.
Public health officials call gun violence a preventable crisis. Firearms are the leading cause of death for children and teens in the United States. Nearly 130 people are killed with guns every day, and about twice as many are shot and injured, according to Everytown Research analysis.
Cleveland feels this toll locally. According to the city’s annual Violence & Injury Report, Cleveland’s rate of gun deaths in 2023 (the latest available) was three times greater than the national average.
On a Saturday afternoon this April, a 9-year-old and a 17-year-old were shot and injured outside a McDonald’s in Collinwood. This past weekend, three people were killed and three more were shot on the Near West Side.
MetroHealth, which is hosting its third annual Gun Violence Awareness Day this year, frames the issue plainly: these deaths and injuries are preventable, but prevention takes everyone — caregivers, community leaders, partner organizations and the public — working together.
In Cleveland, that work is already underway. Organizations across the city are leading a month of free events focused on awareness, advocacy and action.
If we missed any events, send information to hello@signalcleveland.org.
Friday, June 5: MetroHealth 3rd Annual Gun Violence Awareness Day
10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at MetroHealth Main Campus, Rammelkamp Atrium.
Myesha Watkins, director of Cuyahoga County’s Office of Violence Prevention, will lead a panel discussion, “The Ecosystem of Violence Prevention,” bringing together community perspectives on how to work collectively to reduce gun violence. Register here.
Thursday, June 11: Teen Takeover
2 to 6 p.m. at 7th Entertainers, 14804 St. Clair Ave.
This space was built in response to the violence teens experience, the uncertainty around school mergers, and the growing need for safe spaces this summer. Sponsored by the People’s Office, this free event will feature a game truck, art wall, 3-point challenge, and community conversations and resources. Register here.
Saturday, June 13: 5th Annual Survivor Walk
10 a.m. starting at Stop & Save Mart, 15637 St. Clair Ave.
Themed “Intentional Joy & Purposeful Healing,” the walk celebrates the community’s resilience. “We walk for those still grieving. We walk for those still here. We walk because our communities deserve peace,” reads the flyer. Register here.
Saturday, June 13: Block Party
12 to 6 p.m. on Evangeline Road.
Immediately following the Survivor Walk, this event is a perfect chance to hang out and connect with the community. Organizers say to expect great vibes, tasty snacks and plenty of fun. Register here.
Saturday, June 20: Community Bazaar & Resource Event
10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at New Jericho Baptist Church, 11918 Kinsman Road.
A bazaar and resource fair connecting residents with local services, vendors and support organizations. Register here.
Sunday, June 28: Wear Orange Worship Service
10:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Memorial Baptist Church, 3386 E. 119th St.
A vibrant gathering to pray for peace and unity. Wear orange and come ready to connect, sing, and inspire each other. Register here.
