This summer our community has been shaken by the tragic death of several of our teens due to gun violence. The recent death of the 14-year-old boy within minutes of our office is especially hitting me hard. As a parent of a 14-year-old myself, I am deeply saddened and horrified by this senseless act of violence. This young boy could have been any of our children. He could have been my child.
At Southeast Youth and Family Services, we see firsthand the devastating impact that gun violence has on our youth and our community. Each life lost is a future unfulfilled, a family broken, and a community torn apart. We must not allow this to continue.
We must come together, as neighbors, as parents, as friends, and as a community to put an end to this violence. Our children deserve to grow up in a safe environment, free from the threat of guns. They deserve to thrive, to dream, and to live without fear.
Let us honor the memory of this young boy and all the teens we lost this summer by committing to real change. Let us work together to create a community where our youth are safe, supported, and empowered. The time for action is now. Together, we can decrease the number of youth killed by guns and ensure a brighter future for all our children.
Anthony Austin
Executive Director
