Pasadena to Recognize National Gun Violence Awareness Day on June 6

The Pasadena City Council is expected to issue a proclamation on June 2 declaring June 6 as “National Gun Violence Awareness Day” in Pasadena, joining a nationwide movement to honor victims and survivors of gun violence and raise awareness about prevention efforts.

The proclamation will be presented to Day One, a local nonprofit that has worked for over 30 years to provide culturally responsive public health education and empower youth throughout the San Gabriel Valley. The City is encouraging the public to watch the council meeting live online or on KPAS TV.

National Gun Violence Awareness Day launches “Wear Orange Weekend,” a three-day observance from June 6–8, inspired by the memory of 15-year-old Hadiya Pendleton. Pendleton was shot and killed in Chicago in 2013, just a week after performing at President Obama’s second inauguration parade. Her friends began wearing orange — the color hunters wear to protect themselves — as a symbol of solidarity and a call to end gun violence.

As part of the local commemoration, Pasadena residents are encouraged to wear orange and post photos on social media using the hashtag #WearOrange. Pasadena police officers and city employees will wear orange ribbons on Friday, June 6.

Additionally, a “Remembering Those Lost to Gun Violence” banner will be displayed outside Robinson Park Recreation Center, where visitors will have the opportunity to write the names of loved ones lost to gun violence.

Free orange ribbons, stickers, and informational pamphlets will be available to the public on June 6 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the following city locations, while supplies last.

Supplies can be picked up at Jackie Robinson Community Center, 1020 N. Fair Oaks Ave., Robinson Park Recreation Center, 1081 N. Fair Oaks Ave., Victory Park Recreation Center, 2575 Paloma St. and Villa Parke Community Center, 363 E. Villa St.

Day One will also host a Safe Home initiative at the Dena Home Market on Sunday, June 1, from 1 to 4 p.m. at 175 N. Euclid Ave. Staff will offer free gun safety locks and share best practices for firearm safety in the home.