'It's been seven years, and it still feels like yesterday': Milwaukee gun violence survivors come together

 

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- City leaders in Milwaukee are standing in solidarity with survivors of gun violence, holding a Survivors of Violence Gala on Saturday, Jan. 23.

Dozens of people attended the event and unfortunately, many of them know the pain and loss of losing a loved one to gun violence.

"It's been seven years, and it still feels like yesterday," said Brenda Hines, a gun violence survivor.

While Milwaukee city officials report homicides and non-fatal shootings decreased in the city of last year, those who've experienced gun violence firsthand say one victim is too many.

"You continue to hear it on the news every day, that someone else is impacted by it," said Hines.

Hines was one of many attending the survivors of violence event. Her son was shot and killed in 2017, and she says not a day goes by that she doesn’t think of him.

"Me, as a survivor, needs things like, to continue to grow in the community and to know that people do care," said Hines.

The event allowed those who know the pain of losing a loved one to come together and lean on one another for support.

"I've helped them, but other mothers have helped me as well," said Debra Gillispie, the founder of Mothers Against Gun Violence. "I think it's beautiful when you're able to take your pain and turn it into passion."

Both Gillispie and Hines have done just that, creating organizations that work to help their community and stop gun violence.

"We wanted to bring the survivors, the allies and supporters together, to celebrate them and all the things they’ve been able to overcome throughout their stress," said Yasmine Morton with the City of Milwaukee Office of Community Wellness and Safety.

Coming together to remember the lives lost and working together prevent more loved ones being taken from gun violence.