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Regent Park Unites: Community Rallies Against Gun Violence
Written by: Lawrence Rodriguez
Lawrence Rodriguez is a youth journalist for FOCUS Media Art Centre
On June 7, 2024, a protest was held combating the gun violence that is becoming an increasingly prevalent issue in the neighbourhood of Regent Park. This protest was organized by Mothers of Peace Regent Park (MOPRP), whose purpose is to “enhance and support the safety and well-being of the Regent Park community and its surrounding community residents”.
This march was held in conjunction with the National Day Against Gun Violence, a day designated to raise awareness and advocate for solutions to gun violence.
Starting at the TD Centre of Learning building at 540 Dundas Street East, dozens of people, from the young to the old walked around the neighbourhood of Regent Park, equipped with poster boards and signs. The individuals came together to become one to rally against the gun violence plaguing our neighbourhoods. Participants were encouraged to wear white during the walk and free white shirts displaying the text “STOP GUN VIOLENCE” were given out to participants. The white shirts represent the colour of peace and symbolize the efforts to prevent gun violence, and honour those who have been tragically affected by it.
Among the individuals who participated in this protest against gun violence was Member of Provincial Parliament of Ontario, Kristyn Wong-Tam. In their short interview with RPTV reporter Kedar Ahmed, we asked about their outlook and opinions on the issue of gun violence, particularly on how we can improve our current condition and lessen the tragedy caused by gun violence. They responded that we should be "Investing in the young people as early as possible with recreation programs. by making sure families are supported with affordable housing so they don't have to struggle as deeply as they do. addressing the root causes of violence is the best way of preventing violence overall."
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FOCUS Media Arts Centre (FOCUS) is a not-for-profit organization that was established in 1990 to counter negative media stereotypes of low income communities and provide relevant information to residents living in the Regent Park area and surrounding communities.
We seek to empower marginalized individuals and under represented communities to have a voice, through the use of professional training, mentorships and participatory based media practices that enable the sharing of stories, experiences and perspectives on relevant matters and issues. In brief our mandate is to empower marginalized individuals and under-serviced communities to have a voice and tell their own stories.
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