Chicago Community Demands Daytime Ceasefire to Combat Gun Violence

In an effort to address the increasing gun violence in Chicago, a community group called Native Sons has suggested a unique solution.

They are urging individuals to refrain from using firearms between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m., aiming to reduce the risk to innocent bystanders who are not involved in dangerous activities.

The initiative, known as “The People’s Ordinance,” was highlighted in an email newsletter by Alderman Maria Hadden of the 49th Ward.

This proposal comes as Rogers Park experiences a significant increase in shootings. Local law enforcement attributes this surge to an ongoing gang feud between the Gangster Disciples and Black P Stones in Uptown.

Rogers Park group calls on gang members to cease fire from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. https://t.co/QoyAsh2og2 pic.twitter.com/tS3JKpG4K5

— CBS Chicago (@cbschicago) August 17, 2023

Tatiana Atkins, co-founder of Native Sons, expressed her conviction about the initiative.

“We have to start somewhere,” she said. “Our goal is to address our city’s gun violence problem strategically, not all at once. It didn’t become this way overnight, and change won’t happen overnight.”

Atkins further explained the ordinance, calling for an end to the glorification of shooters and aftermarket devices that convert semi-automatic handguns into automatic-firing weapons.

She also urged people to stop wearing ski masks, as it perpetuates their image as threats. Atkins emphasized that when individuals involved in high-risk activities mix with ordinary citizens, everyone is put in danger.

The gun violence in Chicago is a tragic reality. Victims range from young children to older adults, pregnant women, young boys with promising futures, and fathers. This loss of life is unacceptable and demands immediate action.

Wtf! Chicago Mayor is asking the gangs for a cease-fire.

Hey, I have an idea lock the gang members up and throw away the key!

Chicago is a lost cause under Democrat rule. 🙄

— maskless (@ATLGOP) August 17, 2023

While the Native Sons refer to their initiative as an “ordinance,” there is currently no formal legislation in place to enforce stricter penalties for those who violate the proposed ceasefire hours.

However, Atkins clarified that they are not waiting for a bill or law to take action. Instead, they are utilizing social media and the media to drive their movement forward.

Alderman Hadden is said to be supporting the group’s efforts, although her office did not respond to inquiries about her commitment. Atkins hopes that more aldermen and police district council members will endorse the proposal. She reached out to active gang members regarding the ordinance and received more positive feedback than negative. Some even shared the ordinance on their social media platforms. Atkins believes that with increased support from the media, government officials, and community residents, more people will align with the ordinance.

This article appeared in The Record Daily and has been published here with permission.