How communities in Philadelphia are torn apart by gun violence
The Plight of Gun Violence in West Philadelphia: A Story of Fear, Loss, and Hope
In the city of Philadelphia, gun violence has become a reality that many residents live with every day. For Andre Hill, a young man from West Philadelphia, the fear of being caught in the crossfire is a constant companion. "I always look around, making sure my friends are with me, and watching my surroundings," he says. "I’m always aware of my surroundings because you never know when something’s going to happen."
Andre’s story is not unique. According to city government data, more than 670 people have been shot in Philadelphia this year alone, with over 10 mass shootings. The city has the highest per capita gun murder rate of the largest 10 cities in America, with thousands of young people, particularly kids of color, losing their lives to gun violence.
A City in Crisis
Philadelphia is not alone in its struggle with gun violence. Cities across the country are grappling with the issue, but the impact is particularly devastating in communities of color. As Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel notes, "We should never marginalize or make people under feel that that’s okay. We’re not angry enough as a community or as a country as a whole when it happens in black neighborhoods."
The Human Toll
For those who live with gun violence, the impact is not just statistics or numbers. It’s a constant fear, a feeling of vulnerability, and a sense of helplessness. Lesana Williams, who lost her brother to gun violence last year, describes the feeling of waiting for that dreaded phone call. "When your boys go out to the store, you’re on the porch, waiting for them to come back. You’re wondering if they’re going to come back alive."
A Community in Mourning
In West Philadelphia, a community center has become a beacon of hope for young people like Andre. The center, run by Mita Johnson-Harell, provides a safe space for kids to express themselves, talk about their trauma, and find support. As Miss Mo, as she is known, says, "We all became Miss Mo family, and Miss Mo became our family."
A Call to Action
The statistics may show that gun violence is declining, but for those who live with it, the impact is real and devastating. As Yasmin, a journalist who has covered the issue, notes, "Each individual life is a tragedy, and yet the stats, the numbers show things are getting better. But it doesn’t matter if it’s your kid, if it’s your neighbor."
The issue of gun violence is complex, but one thing is clear: it’s a problem that requires a collective effort to solve. As Andre says, "I want to see peace. That’s why I put the star on the top symbol out – one person is always going to try to push for peace."
Tomorrow’s Report
Join us tomorrow as we explore the efforts being made locally and nationally to address the issue of gun violence, and hear from parents who have lost children to gun violence. We will also be speaking with experts and community leaders who are working to create change. Stay tuned for more on this critical issue.
