Bessemer City Eighth Graders Take a Stand Against Gun Violence
In Bessemer, Alabama, a powerful movement is brewing as students at Bessemer City Middle School take a stand against gun violence. On the recent National Day of Concern, students across the U.S. pledged to combat the gun violence epidemic affecting their communities. This important initiative aims to highlight the role that young people play in curbing violence, and Bessemer’s students are leading the way.
Heartfelt Personal Stories Inspire Action
Among the eighth graders was Martez Sanders, a student who shared a deeply emotional story. He recalled the pain of losing his uncle to gun violence just a year ago, saying, “I remember crying after that. It still affects my family today.” Martez joined many of his classmates in signing a pledge that highlighted their commitment: “I will never bring a gun to school. I will never use a gun to settle a personal problem or dispute.” The students promised to use their influence to discourage their peers from resorting to violence.
As students gathered in the school gym, they listened intently as Jessica Barnes-Brown shared her heartbreaking story of losing her son Censere, an 18-year-old football player, to gun violence in 2018. Her powerful words resonated with the students, and many raised their hands to indicate they, too, had lost loved ones to similar tragedies. It was evident that even those not directly involved in such events felt the heavy toll of gun violence.
Alarming Statistics Reflect a Growing Crisis
The need for such initiatives couldn’t be clearer. In Jefferson County, there have been a staggering 164 homicides just this year. The city of Birmingham alone has recorded 130 homicides, eight of whom were children. Tragically, the youngest was just five years old. Incidents like these leave families shattered and communities in mourning. Eighth grader Ale Rodas expressed sympathy for those families affected, stating, “I feel bad for the people that lose kids like that because that’s a pain that nobody should go through.”
Encouraging Peaceful Solutions
In a society increasingly touched by violence, students are learning that they have the power to make a positive difference. Another eighth grader, Talyn Griglen, reflected on the impact of gun violence on her mother, a teacher at the school. “Sometimes she turns on the news and then she sees one of her former students has been shot and killed,” she shared, emphasizing the personal toll these tragedies have on communities and families.
During her talk, Barnes-Brown urged the students to find peaceful solutions to conflicts. “If you know your friends are in an altercation or dispute, try to encourage them not to use a gun. Try to find alternate ways to solve disputes,” she said. She reminded the young audience that once a life is taken, it can never be reclaimed. “Not only is that person affected, but everybody that came in contact with that person is affected,” she added, encouraging them to realize the weight of their choices.
Empowerment Through Pledges and Promises
The students’ pledge continued with a powerful statement: “My individual choices and actions, when multiplied by those of young people throughout the country, will make a difference.” The collective commitment aims to create a wave of change, reversing violence and allowing youth to grow up in safety.
In addition to Barnes-Brown, Bessemer District Attorney Lynneice Washington addressed the students, sharing the stark realities of gun violence, prison, and the untimely loss of life. “Think twice before picking up a gun,” she urged, reinforcing the message that they hold the power to make wise decisions that could save lives.
A Community Rallying Together
The National Day of Concern brought together the voices of Bessemer’s youth, reminding everyone that change can start with a single pledge. As these students commit to promoting peace and understanding in their community, they are not only honoring the memories of those lost to violence but also lighting the way for a safer future for all. Their courageous stand reminds us all that it is possible — and essential — to choose compassion over conflict.
