The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) held its seminar “Voices for Peace: A Community Response to Gun Violence” on Thursday at the Parkway Central Library in Philadelphia. The event brought together community leaders, activists, and public officials to discuss the impact of gun violence and explore collective solutions for safer communities.
The gathering opened with a powerful and hopeful message from PHRC Executive Director Chad Dion Lassiter:
“We cannot police our way out of pain; we must heal it together,”
he said, emphasizing that empathy and social justice are the foundation for lasting peace.
The seminar was moderated by Jason Culler, PHRC’s Civil Rights Outreach Coordinator, who dynamically introduced the panelists: Councilmember Curtis Jones Jr., Michele Parker (Mothers in Charge), Robert McKenzie (Quality Education for Youth and Communities), and Rickey Duncan (NOMO Foundation).
During the interactive session, audience members asked the panelists questions about the impact of civic engagement programs and effective strategies to reduce violence.
Councilmember Curtis Jones Jr., recognized for his legislative work in Philadelphia, highlighted some of his initiatives:“I passed laws to address retail theft, youth tobacco use, and illegal gaming devices. We’ve also secured more than $583 million in contracts for minority-owned businesses,” Jones stated, receiving strong applause from the audience.
Under the theme “Call to Action: Building Solutions Together,” moderator Culler guided brief reflections from each panelist on available resources and ways the community can get involved. Speakers agreed that prevention and collaboration among neighbors, organizations, and authorities are essential to healing communities affected by violence.
The event concluded with words of encouragement and hope, underscoring the importance of dialogue, education, and civic participation as key tools to build a fairer, more peaceful Philadelphia.
“Change begins with us with every conversation, every act of empathy, every effort to understand and heal together,” Lassiter concluded.
Anyone who has experienced discrimination or a hate act can file a complaint by calling 717-787-4410.
