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Local organization launches campaign to remember child victims of armed violence
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Local organization launches campaign to remember child victims of armed violence

MOBILE, Alabama (WALA) – Men United Against Violence has launched its fall campaign, “Remember Their Names” to raise awareness about the tragic impact of gun violence in Mobile and honor the lives of five young victims. The centerpiece of this campaign is a sign on Moffett Road displaying the names of these children.

The youngest victim mentioned is 9-year-old Cailee Knight, who was murdered while sleeping on her couch last year. Other names include 14-year-old Ciara Jackson, who was shot to death while with friends in a car in 2022, 16-year-old Jakobi Freeman, who was killed alongside her best friend, 19-year-old Cameron Montgomery, and -old Ahmond Ervin.

The campaign includes a planned rally at the sign site, where community members will gather and call for a safer future.

“We just want to focus attention on the victims of senseless urban terrorist gun violence so they are not forgotten,” said Sgt. John Young, one of the founders of the organization. “We contacted the parents and these five parents were flattered that someone remembered their children…”

Also mentioned on screen is 11-year-old Lequinten Morrissette, who was shot when gunfire erupted at his family’s home in RV Taylor Plaza in 2022. His mother says seeing the sign melts her heart and she considers it a sign of peace that guarantees that these young victims will not be forgotten.

“And another thing: These are five black children and the suspects arrested were black men,” said Sgt. Young adds.

In addition to the demonstration, Sgt. Young hopes the campaign will push for legislative changes, such as making Glock switches illegal in Alabama and restricting bail for shooters who injure children.

“If we cannot protect the most vulnerable and innocent in our city, what is our purpose? What is our plan?

The date of the demonstration at the poster location will be announced soon.