For many Americans, Independence Day weekend is a time to celebrate freedom. Yet, for far too many of our neighbors, this past weekend was full of danger at parades, backyard barbecues, on local streets, and in their own homes as nearly every state in our country experienced murders totaling over 200 deaths. 

All of us at the Louis D. Brown Peace Institute (LDBPI) extend our deepest condolences to the families and friends of the victims and recognize that every act of violence causes harm to the wider community. Every homicide leaves behind survivors whose pain and grief endure long after the world has moved on. For every homicide victim, there are at least 10 immediate family members impacted. Even when homicide rates reportedly decline, the survivor rate increases daily.

LDBPI CEO and Founder Clementina Chéry pursues a comprehensive approach to “transforming the narrative of gun violence, that includes and goes beyond reforming gun laws,  so that the focus is not solely on the gun, for the gun is a weapon of choice.” Chéry states,  “People are hurting. People are dying; we’re in pain. We absolutely must deal with the aftermath and help people to heal. So as we begin to transform the narrative of gun violence, put attention and resources to what the researchers say needs to happen, investing in prevention beforehand and in healing afterward, that’s when we will really see transformation – especially within communities of color –  that’s sustainable.”

If you have experienced the murder of a loved one, you deserve to be supported with dignity and compassion, regardless of the circumstances. The Louis D. Brown Peace Institute’s mission is to serve as a center of Healing, Teaching, and Learning for families and communities impacted by murder, trauma, grief, and loss. We are an integral partner to the City of Boston and have developed best practices and homicide response toolkits in serving families and communities impacted by murder for 28 years. We offer resources to families seeking support. Learn more at https://www.ldbpeaceinstitute.org/ or call 617-825-1917.