Answering The Call

Photo By James D'Angelo

On Saturday, April 25, the Harrisburg Brethren in Christ Church hosted a "Stand in Solidarity" event for sensible gun laws.  A minor accident delayed the start of the event, and Rev Belita Mitchell of the host church worked the delay into her opening remarks when she mentioned how efforts to pass common-sense gun laws had "stalled".

Photo By James D'Angelo

State Representative Patty Kim gave a view from inside the State General Assembly of the struggles faced in that body to pass reasonable laws.  She spoke of the law that allows out of state groups to sue cities who attempt to pass laws to prohibit the unlawful discharge of firearms in their city or require safe storage, and of the power the NRA, etc have over the State Assembly.  

Photo By James D'Angelo

Briel Slocum brought a community perspective on the effects guns and violence had on her.  Telling of several incidents where she or a family member was nearly shot.

Photo By James D'Angelo

Harrisburg Mayor Eric Papenfuse was unable to attend, but Police Chief Thomas Carter was there to speak both of the efforts to combat illegal guns in the city and efforts to fight crime in general.

Photo By James D'Angelo

 There were opportunities for the community to ask questions of the speakers.  Catholic Worker activist Naed Smith took an opportunity to ask questions.

A local community member also engaged Chief Carter in a spirited discussion.

Photo By James D'Angelo

Photo By James D'Angelo

Heeding God's Call Executive Director Brian Miller closed the event with words of inspiration.  Speaking of how the group has grown from its beginnings in New Jersey, to it's success in Philadelphia. 

He also reminded the guests that this is a long struggle.