National Gun Violence Awareness Month
June is National Gun Violence Awareness Month, a time when cities like Philadelphia unite to honor victims, support survivors, and advocate for safer communities. In 2023, Philadelphia reported 1,666 shooting victims, with 374 fatalities, highlighting the urgent need for continued action. Philadelphia continues to grapple with the devastating impact of gun violence, particularly in historically underserved neighborhoods. In 2024, the city recorded 268 homicides—a 35% decrease from the previous year and the lowest total in over a decade. Despite this encouraging trend, Philadelphia still experienced over 1,000 shooting victims in 2024, underscoring the ongoing urgency of community-driven solutions.
In response, Mural Arts Philadelphia’s Porch Light program launched A Better World is Possible, a transformative initiative aimed at healing and community empowerment. This project transformed decommissioned firearms into public art installations, such as planters and benches, and culminated in a central memorial at The Simple Way’s community garden in Kensington—a neighborhood deeply affected by gun violence. Residents participated in educational workshops on metalsmithing and welding, turning weapons into works of art while discussing the impact of gun violence on their lives and neighborhoods.
Shane Claiborne, co-founder of RAWtools Philadelphia, a longtime peace activist and blacksmith, leads this transformative work. Inspired by the biblical vision of turning swords into plowshares, Claiborne has spent over a decade converting guns into tools and art, offering communities a tangible path from violence to healing. Muralist/artist Jacob “Chris” Hammes, creator of the Love Lot mural, worked alongside Claiborne as lead designer on this collaboration with Mural Arts.
A dedication event for this installation is scheduled for Sunday, July 20, from Noon to 2 pm at The Simple Way’s community garden in Kensington, 3200 Potter St. Community members are invited to engage with the art and garden, participate in discussions, and contribute to the ongoing dialogue on creating safer, more vibrant neighborhoods.
In addition, Mural Arts partnered with photographer Kathy Shorr on SHOT: We the Mothers, a powerful photo documentary featuring 51 Philadelphia mothers who have lost children to gun violence. The portraits, taken at locations meaningful to each child, were displayed in public spaces like Saunders Park, offering a poignant tribute to lives lost and the enduring grief of those left behind. This project amplifies these mothers’ voices, transforming personal loss into collective remembrance and advocacy. A new display, created in collaboration with community partner Taylor Memorial Baptist Church in Germantown, featuring photographs that have not been shown before, will be on view at the church in July.
