June 2, 2022–5:24 p.m.
NEWS RELEASE
As mass shootings continue to wreak havoc across our nation, resulting in the deaths of children and adults alike, Turn Your Back on Hate – a local non-profit activism organization – will hold a rally, “Rise Up Against Gun Violence” on Saturday, June 4 at 1:30 p.m. at the Rome City Police Department.
This non-partisan rally is open to anyone to hear from community leaders in support of action against gun violence. Attendees are invited to sport orange attire, as the event occurs during “Wear Orange” nationwide events on Gun Violence Awareness weekend.
“The best way to show our solidarity for communities impacted by recent mass shootings is to take action toward a safer, more peaceful country,” said event organizer Terri Morgan. “Proactive measures and policies must occur as well as stronger steps and programs centered on gun violence prevention. We want to do our part to bring about change.”
Event speakers will include local faith leaders and spearheaders of community organizations centered on peace. Reverend Terrell Shields of Calvary Baptist Church, Oralia Limon Caldera of Romanos Unidos, Charles Love of One Community United, faith leader Shelly Peller, recent Rome area graduate Mallory Brown and Sara Malone of the NAACP are among keynote speakers.
“There isn’t one person who hasn’t been shaken by the senseless acts of violence over the last few weeks,” said event organizer Lauren Jones. “We invite our community to “Rise Up Against Gun Violence” and call on lawmakers on both sides of the aisle to recognize that change must happen and take actual steps toward increased gun control measures for the safety and security of the people in our country.”