The third annual We Are Our Own Medicine conference, held April 24–25, brought together a growing coalition committed to reducing gun violence—faith leaders, nonprofit partners, CVI workers, and government officials. What began as a vision led by Alees Edwards has grown into a movement of its own, grounded in collaboration and shared responsibility. Together Chicago was proud to in-kind sponsor and participate in this space, continuing our commitment to building peace alongside those doing the work every day.
Nate Tubbs, our Director of Civic Engagement (left), and Dr. John Fuder, our Director of Faith-Community Mobilization (right)
Across panels and breakout sessions, we saw one theme standing out: violence prevention and peacemaking require all of us, and we are stronger together when utilizing our unique backgrounds and expertise. Our Director of Civic Engagement, Nate Tubbs, saw this clearly while moderating the faith leaders panel—leaders modeling what it looks like to come together across differences for the sake of safer communities. At the same time, our Education and Love Your School teams helped lead critical conversations on supporting schools, naming the root causes of youth violence and calling for deeper investment in students.
Damien Howards (third from left), our Director of Education, participating in a panel on supporting schools and students.
Ed Brown, one of our Street Outreach Supervisors, receives spotlight in Survivor Story breakout session.
But some of the most powerful moments came from the youth themselves. Young people who have experienced gun violence spoke candidly about what they need: not to be fixed, but to be trusted and involved. They asked adults to listen, to invest in their ideas, and to make space for them as partners in the work.
We Are Our Own Medicine was a space for learning, relationship-building, and shared ownership. Real progress happens when communities, leaders, and young people come together in order to build together.
Youth panelists share their perspectives on gun violence.