The Federation of Black Canadians (FBC FCN) stands firmly against gun violence, particularly the disproportionate impact it has on Black communities. This June 7th, on the National Day Against Gun Violence, we’re proud to partner with Keep6ix to present “Harmony Over Violence: A Concert for Change” an event aimed at raising awareness and fostering a sense of unity in the face of this ongoing crisis.
Date: June 7th, National Day of Stop the Gun Violence
Time: 3-7pm
Venue: Mississauga Celebration Square
Purpose: to promote community solidarity against gun violence. Through the power of music, art, and insightful speakers, we seek to inspire positive change and foster unity within our communities.
To learn more about the event visit: https://www.keep6ix.org/events/
Why We Take Action
Gun violence shatters lives and tears families apart. Judge Mcleod, a founding member of the FBC FCN, recognized this devastating impact on Black communities and called a working group to address this problem along with other issues disproportionately affecting Black Canadians. Since then, we’ve worked tirelessly to advocate for change.
“So here we are now, and there was a young woman last year that got shot. When she got shot, she was pregnant. So she died and the baby died. Then there was a rash of shootings that had taken place”
Judge Mcleod, founding member, calls meeting to address concerns of gun violence and its impact on the Black Community
Beyond the Headlines: A Commitment to Long-Term Change
Many of us remember the surge of support for Black rights in 2020. However, public interest often fades with the news cycle. The same happens with funding for Black-led organizations like ours. While short-term bursts of support are crucial, sustained resources are essential to create lasting change. We need ongoing funding to develop and implement effective programs that address the social and economic factors contributing to gun violence in our communities.
Building a Brighter Future: How You Can Make a Difference
“Harmony Over Violence” is more than just a concert; it’s a call to action. Here are some ways you can be part of the solution:
- Join Us at the Concert: Head down to Mississauga Celebration Square for an afternoon filled with music, powerful stories, and valuable resources.
- Volunteer : Many community organizations work tirelessly to address the root causes of gun violence, such as poverty, lack of opportunity, and gang involvement. These programs often provide mentorship, after-school activities, and conflict resolution training for youth. Research local programs in your area and consider volunteering your time or donating to support their efforts.
- Pledge for Action: Gun violence won’t end by itself. We encourage you to make a tangible commitment to stopping gun violence. This could involve supporting youth programs that promote conflict resolution or advocating for policy changes.
- Contact your local MP:
- tell our government that you want to live in a country without gun violence
- new legislation bans the import, sale and transfer of handguns. Contact your local MP and tell them that you support this
- Donate: Keep6ix, Coalition for Gun Control, Federation of Black Canadians, and any other organization that fight against gun violence.
- Share: We recognize that not everyone, has the capacity to give time and money, sharing this post to raise awareness goes a long way to reaching those who can.
Change Starts with Us
Together, we can create a future where gun violence is no longer a daily threat. By raising awareness, advocating for change, and supporting community-driven solutions, we can turn the dream of “Harmony Over Violence” into reality.
Join us on June 7th and let your voice be heard. Let’s build a future where every child feels safe walking to school, every family feels secure in their own home, and every community can thrive without fear of gun violence.
Visit the FBC FCN website at www.fbcfcn.ca to learn more about our work.
To learn more about the “Harmony Over Violence” concert, including a full schedule and artist lineup visit the Keep6ix website.
