Around a dozen people gathered in downtown Charleston Sunday afternoon to participate in the “March for Our Sons and Daughters,” organized by the Charleston-based nonprofit Motivate to Educate. The march aimed to raise awareness and unite the community in the fight against youth violence.
Mission to Combat Violence
Tony Lewis, founder and president of Motivate to Educate, emphasized the march’s mission to bring attention to the rising violence in the community. “Our vision is to bring awareness to violence and crime and educate people about what’s going on,” Lewis said. He stressed the importance of addressing the root causes of youth violence, including mental health, social economics, and poverty. “If we can fix those and work on them together, I think we can curve and solve the problem,” he added.
Gun Violence and Its Impact on Youth
Recent data highlights the growing concern over youth gun violence in South Carolina. According to Johns Hopkins Center for Gun Violence Solutions, firearms were the second leading cause of death for young people up to 17 in 2023. Furthermore, young Black men aged 15 to 34, who make up only 3.6% of the state’s population, represented 46% of all gun homicide deaths in 2023.
Personal Stories of Loss and Advocacy
Ruth Ann Harrison, who lost her son Michael to gun violence 17 years ago, spoke about the lasting pain of losing a child. “My son Michael was my joy,” she said. “When we turn the pain into action, we can see the results.” Harrison encouraged other mothers who have lost children to gun violence to remain strong and united. “It’s time to come together,” she urged.
Call to Action for Elected Officials
Attendees of the march expressed frustration with the lack of action from elected officials to address the gun violence epidemic. Gordon Cashwell, director of Without Walls Ministry, called on leaders to become more involved in the community, mentoring youth and offering guidance. “Elected officials should be walking the streets and mentoring kids to keep them in school and out of trouble,” Cashwell said.
Harrison also pleaded with officials to take immediate action: “I’m begging and I’m asking, please y’all, let us come together. Let us reason together.” She reaffirmed her commitment to helping other mothers who have lost children to gun violence, offering support and guidance in their grief.
Event Details
The march took place from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Hampton Park, with participants walking in solidarity to demand an end to youth violence and a call for stronger community involvement and solutions.
