Events in Milwaukee set to observe National Gun Violence Awareness Weekend

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Gun violence continues to be a problem in the United States, leaving families mourning and communities in fear. Latest reports from the Gun Violence Archive reveal that the epidemic claimed the lives of over 44,000 Americans in 2022.

To confront the issue, concerned citizens, officials, and organizations across the nation are coming together for the National Gun Violence Awareness Weekend on Saturday, June 3 and Sunday, June 4, including here in Milwaukee.

A free screening of "When Claude Got Shot" at Epikos Church at 3737 N. Sherman Blvd. will take place at 6 p.m. on Friday, June 2. Organized by Safe and Sound, the event explores the personal impacts of gun violence through a documentary screening followed by a panel discussion.

A "Paint the City Orange Peace Walk" will kick off on Saturday, June 3 at 11 a.m. from Safe and Sound at 4422 W. Leon Terrace. The walk, conducted in partnership with Brady United Against Gun Violence, Milwaukee's Office of Violence Prevention, and WAVE Educational Fund, will serve as a memorial to gun violence victims.

Also, a Drive-Through Memorial will be held on Sherman Blvd. between Townsend and Locust streets from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday. Hosted by the Metro Milwaukee Moms Demand Action group, the memorial will display pictures of Milwaukee residents who lost their lives to gun violence. Attendees can honor the victims and receive a free gun lock.