Student Voices

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    Slide1
    “I often hear about gun violence in the news, and it’s really sad how so many people get killed. Some people even get killed by mistake, and I believe that the only way to stop that is to get all guns off the wrong hands.” - 6th grade
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    “It really scares me sometimes, and I really want handgun violence to stop!” - 4th grade
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    “Gun violence makes me mad.” - 4th grade
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    Slide4
    “I’ve lived to see many people I love get killed because of gun violence.” - 11th grade
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    “I feel it [gun violence] should be changed because of the unfortunate kids who aren’t even given a chance due to hand gun violence in the city. Their life is just taken in a blink of an eye. It has to stop; where will we be?” - 6th grade
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    “I enjoy writing poetry about things that I feel should be changed and heard. It feels wonderful to write my opinions through poetry.” - 7th grade
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    Slide7
    “Gun violence is very hazardous and it should be stopped. One day everyone just has to say no and put their foot down.” - 7th grade

The ICHV Student Voices Program is designed to get youth thinking, speaking and acting in response to gun violence. Affected by gun violence in all its forms (community violence, accidental shooting and suicides), youth in Illinois have much to say on this issue. Through our Contest, we provide an outlet for expression and a platform for youth to be heard. Our Curriculum offerings and Workshops facilitate conversations with youth on the causes of and possible solutions to the complex issue of gun violence. And, through our Student Leaders Project, we help youth put their thoughts and words into action as they are trained in leadership and activism and ultimately create their own anti-violence campaign. By engaging the youth of Illinois as agents of change and voices to be listened to, the Student Voices Program ensures that youth are included in the debate about gun violence and in creating solutions to ultimately reduce the incidence of death and injury caused by gun violence.