BE THERE: Vigil and Call for Action

Denver and Aurora have seen a significant number of gun incidents and gun fatalities.  This summer a number have involved youth, who, ironically, are prohibited from purchasing handguns.   A week ago on Saturday morning, two individuals were shot and killed in the 2800 block of Welton St., which is in the Five Points neighborhood of Denver.  One of the victims was the son of Lamumba Sayers, who has been active in the community in his efforts to combat gun violence.  The father and son were “loud voices in the fight to reduce youth violence” through their Heavy Hands and Heavy Hearts Foundation. Through the Gloves Up/Guns Down activity, they offered youth an alternative to violence through boxing lessons and community building.  Vigil Specifics:  Metro Area Community Vigil to Address Gun Violence Tuesday, August 29 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.  Front steps of the Denver City and County Building 1437 Bannock St., Denver Community Leaders speaking: Rev. Dr. Jose Silva, Brother Jeff, Pastor Vernon Jones, Rev. James West Denver DA Beth McCann, Rep. Jennifer Bacon, former City Council member Albus Brooks, and City Council member Stacie Gilmore  Joel Hodges and Kwon Atlas Survivors of Gun Violence:  Adam Fresquez, Lumumba Sayers (tentative), Kerris Silva and Mo Maestas  The conveners of the vigil encourage anyone impacted and affected by gun violence to join them at the steps of the Denver City Hall.  There will be a moment of silence to honor those lost to us.  They view the vigil as a first step in eradicating gun violence from our city and for making a promise that we will not stand for our young people using guns as a tool to resolve conflict.  All persons concerned about gun violence are encouraged to attend.    In 2021, gun violence was the leading cause of death for youth and children. In Colorado this year, at least 162 people have died from gun homicides;  44 were in Denver and 20 in Aurora. Teens and youth were involved as victims or perpetrators in 22 of those fatalities  (Data derived from Gun Violence Archive.).