June 16, 2026
Mayor's Office
DATE: June 16, 2026
TO: Members of the City Council
FROM:
Mayor Eduardo Martinez
Councilmember Jamelia Brown
Subject:
Proclamation Recognizing the First Friday in June as
National Gun Violence Awareness Day
FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no fiscal impact associated with this item.
PREVIOUS COUNCIL
ACTION:
None.
STATEMENT OF THE
ISSUE:
National Gun Violence Awareness Day is observed
annually on the first Friday in June to honor victims and survivors of gun violence and to raise awareness about
the impacts of gun violence on communities across the
country. The proposed proclamation recognizes June 5,
2026, as National Gun Violence Awareness Day in the
City of Richmond and encourages community awareness
and participation in related observances.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
PROCLAMATION recognizing the first Friday in June to
be National Gun Violence Awareness Day – Mayor
Eduardo Martinez (510-620-6503)/Councilmember
Jamelia Brown (510-412-2050).
AGENDA
REPORT
June 16, 2026
DISCUSSION:
National Gun Violence Awareness Day is recognized annually on the first Friday in June to honor the lives of victims and survivors of gun violence and to raise awareness about the impacts of gun violence on communities across the country. In 2026, National Gun Violence Awareness Day will be observed on June 5, followed by Wear Orange Weekend on June 6–7.
The Wear Orange movement began in honor of Hadiya Pendleton, a 15-year-old girl who was tragically killed by gun violence in 2013. The campaign was inspired by her friends, who chose the color orange to symbolize the value of human life and to promote awareness around gun violence prevention. Since then, communities, local governments, organizations, and residents across the United States have participated in Wear Orange activities and observances.
The City of Richmond recognizes the importance of community safety and acknowledges the impact gun violence has on individuals, families, and neighborhoods.
This proclamation provides an opportunity to recognize victims and survivors of gun violence, support community awareness efforts, and encourage residents to participate in National Gun Violence Awareness Day observances.
Issuing this proclamation aligns with ongoing efforts to promote public safety, community engagement, and violence prevention initiatives throughout the City of Richmond.
DOCUMENTS ATTACHED:
Attachment 1 – 2026 Proclamation Declaring the First Friday in June to be National Gun Violence Awareness Day