In the wake of the tragic school shooting in Parkland, Florida, the conversation surrounding gun violence has gained significant traction. Unfortunately, discussions about gun control often overlook the experiences of communities of color, particularly within Black neighborhoods. However, one remarkable Black woman is stepping up to ensure that these voices are amplified and that Black individuals are at the forefront of the movement.
Frustrated by the exclusion of Black communities in the dialogue around gun violence, in November 2016, Maya Thompson founded the Community Justice Reform Coalition (CJRC). Her mission is to empower people of color, placing them in leadership roles to actively combat gun violence. At that time, it was evident that not only the Black community was under threat but that other communities of color were also facing imminent danger, all while the majority of gun violence activism was led by white individuals. “It has been a challenge to secure not just a seat at the table but a voice that carries weight in the discussions surrounding gun violence,” Thompson expressed in an interview with The Grio in 2017.
According to their website, CJRC is a “national advocacy coalition committed to promoting and investing in evidence-based policies and initiatives to prevent gun violence and advocate for criminal justice reform in urban communities of color.” They provide training for individuals of color, equipping them with the necessary skills to engage in community organizing and elevate the importance of their narratives in conversations about gun violence.
The dialogue around gun reform often skews towards high-profile incidents, such as mass shootings, while neglecting the everyday violence that profoundly impacts Black and other communities of color. For example, within just ten days following the Parkland shooting, at least 21 other children lost their lives to gun violence in the U.S., as reported by the Gun Violence Archive. Each day, nearly 19 children are injured or killed by firearms in America. This reality underscores that the issue extends far beyond the misconception of “Black-on-Black crime.” As of March 2018, the Gun Violence Archive recorded approximately 2,500 gun-related fatalities in the United States, with police involved in 405 of those incidents—often targeting people of color.
Thompson’s awareness of the representation gap deepened during her time working with a former legislator on gun reform initiatives. “I began to see the gaps in organizing and funding that were crucial for the grassroots efforts required,” she noted. It has become increasingly clear that representation is vital—not only in media and literature but also in advocacy work. To be taken seriously, communities must have a presence that reflects their struggles and aspirations.
CJRC aims to empower individuals of color with the knowledge and tools necessary to participate in town hall meetings and advocacy efforts effectively. As Thompson emphasizes, “White individuals are less likely to take the issue seriously unless they see Black communities actively participating in the conversation.”
In a political climate where people of color are often painted as adversaries to the so-called “American way of life,” it is essential for these communities to have the opportunity to advocate for themselves and those who have lost their lives fighting for gun reform. “We are committed to ensuring that our communities remain safe and that the voices of those most affected by these policies are heard,” Thompson stated.
Maya and her team at CJRC are traveling across the country to engage with areas frequently overlooked in broader gun violence discussions. They are offering training on advocacy techniques and media engagement for individuals directly impacted by gun violence, providing them with the necessary tools to influence policy changes effectively. By doing so, they demonstrate their commitment to long-term advocacy for gun violence reform, aiming to secure rightful representation at the decision-making table.
In conclusion, the fight against gun violence requires a collective effort, particularly from those who have historically been marginalized in these discussions. Maya Thompson and the CJRC are paving the way for a more inclusive approach to advocacy, ensuring that the voices of communities of color are not only heard but also lead the charge for meaningful change.
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Keyphrase: Woman of Color Fighting Gun Violence
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