In June 2007, 8-year old Liquarry Jefferson’s 7-year old cousin was playing with a loaded 9mm gun. Suddenly, a shot was fired — and Liquarry died almost instantly. His mother and half-brother were later charged with involuntary manslaughter for, in part, keeping an illegal gun in reach of young children.
In response to Liquarry’s death, a radio DJ recently organized the “Liquarry Jefferson Man Up March For Accountability and Gang Truce Rally” to encourage men to take a more active role in combating gun violence. The rally was held this past Sunday and brought together religious leaders, city leaders and other public figures to spurn community-led efforts against violence. There will also be frequent “Man Up Mondays” community meetings to keep the momentum going.
Here are some national and regional organizations active on the gun violence issue. Feel free to suggest others if you have any in mind:
