The Washington, DC city council unanimously passed a resolution declaring January Guns Aside month in the District of Columbia. The resolution was introduced by Councilmember Adrian Fenty, Ward 4, and cosponsored by Councilmember Jim Graham, Ward 1.

On Wednesday, January 11, a press conference was held declaring a state of emergency for the rash of gun violence and homicides taking place in Washington, DC and throughout the metropolitan area.

http://www.washingtoninformer.com/

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/01/18/AR2006011800833.html

As a part of the campaign to recognize Guns Aside month in the District, ROOT, in collaboration with the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE), the DC Department of Health, BET Rap It Up, US Army, Air Tran, WKYS Radio and MAJIC 102.3, WPFW Radio, ANC 1B, and LJ Management, is hosting forums in the auditorium on the campus of the University of the District of Columbia Monday, January 30 and Tuesday, January 31.

On Monday, January 30, middle and junior high school students representing schools from throughout the metropolitan area will be transported to UDC to have a candid forum with hip hop artists, record company executives, and local go go artists to discuss music and the subliminal affects it may have on violent behavior.

On Tuesday, January 31, high school students representing schools from throughout the metropolitan area will be transported to UDC for a mayoral forum where they can discuss their concerns with selected mayoral candidates for upcoming mayoral elections to be held in November of 2006.

Media invited to cover this event include C-SPAN and BET, as well as other local and national outlets. WPFW Radio, 89.3 FM, Washington, DC, will be broadcasting both forums live beginning at 10 AM. The forums will begin with opening remarks at 9:30 AM and end at 11:30 AM. The mayoral forum will be facilitated by Damu Smith.

These events are for youth to have their voices heard; if you have any youth who would like to attend please respond promptly as seating is limited.

Event Info: Ava Harrison, 202-332-ROOT(7668), avaharrison@rootinc.org