Each year, communities across the nation observe National Gun Violence Awareness Month through Project Wear Orange, a movement dedicated to honoring victims of gun violence, supporting survivors, and promoting safer communities.
The movement was inspired by the life of Hadiya Pendleton, a 15 year old Chicago honor student who was tragically killed by gun violence in 2013, just days after performing at President Barack Obama’s second inauguration. In her memory, friends and family chose to wear orange, a color associated with safety and protection. Today, that tribute has grown into a nationwide call for awareness and action.
From Left to Right: Councilman Cory Penn, NAACP President-Mobile Chapter Robert Clopton Sr., Councilwoman Samantha Ingram
This year, Hadiya would have celebrated her 28th birthday.
Project Wear Orange serves as a reminder that behind every statistic is a person, a family, and a community impacted by loss. The observance encourages conversations around prevention, intervention, and community safety while highlighting efforts to reduce violence through education, mentorship, outreach, and support services.
In Mobile and communities across Alabama, organizations, faith leaders, educators, and advocates continue working to strengthen neighborhoods through youth engagement, violence prevention initiatives, and community based programs. These efforts reflect a shared belief that safer communities are built through collaboration, awareness, and early intervention.
Wear Orange is more than a color. It is a symbol of remembrance, hope, and a commitment to creating safer futures for all.
As communities gather to observe Wear Orange, the message remains clear: every life matters, and everyone has a role to play in preventing violence and promoting peace.
