North Charlotte Today

Mecklenburg County, in collaboration with the Arts and Science Council, has commissioned five local artists to create artwork aimed at promoting gun violence prevention. The initiative seeks to engage the community in discussions about alternative solutions to this pressing issue.

Leslie Johnson, Mecklenburg Deputy County Manager, emphasized the impact of gun violence on the community: “Gun violence impacts all of us and we all feel the collective loss. The images are powerful, and it is clear that we all have a role to play in preventing gun violence in our community.”

The artworks will be showcased at the upcoming Peace-Builders Youth Summit organized by the Public Health Office of Violence Prevention and Park and Recreation. The event is scheduled for Saturday, March 29, from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., at West Charlotte Recreation Center located at 2401 Kendall Road.

Dr. Kimberly Scott, Mecklenburg County Assistant Health Director, highlighted the summit's objectives: “We are committed to addressing and reducing community violence, especially gun violence. The Office of Violence Prevention’s Peace-Builders Youth Summit will provide an opportunity for our teens to raise awareness and help us craft solutions for preventing violence. The theme is ‘Violence Free, Begins With Me’ and the artwork will promote thoughtful discussions.”

The county plans to display these artworks across various locations as part of its campaign against gun violence. Additionally, they will remain on exhibit at five Park and Recreation centers within the county:

- Arbor Glen Recreation Center (1520 Clanton Rd) – “Inherent Dignity”

- West Charlotte Recreation Center (2402 Kendall Dr.) – “Am I Next?”

- Sugaw Creek Recreation Center (943 W. Sugar Creek Rd.) – “Growth Not Guns”

- Bette Rae Thomas Recreation Center (2921 Tuckaseegee Rd.) – “Seeding Hope”

- Revolution Sports Academy and Park (1225 Remount Rd.) – “Out of the Streets, Into the Fields”