Rev. A Sharpton, president and founder of the National Action Network, center, issued a call to action for Black fathers to mobilize against gun violence. PHOTO COURTESY OF DAVIA MURRAY

Initiative to curb shootings comes amid spike in violence over Juneteenth Weekend

New York – This past Father’s Day and Juneteenth weekend, Rev. Al Sharpton, President and Founder of the National Action Network (NAN), issued a call to action for fathers to mobilize against the epidemic of gun violence in Black and Brown communities. During a sermon at the Metropolitan Baptist Church, pastored by Dr. David Jefferson Sr., Esq., Rev. Sharpton sought to empower fathers to become the driving force behind their children’s future.

“Father’s Day is as much an activation as it is a celebration for Black men to step up and lead in their communities,” said Rev. Al Sharpton, Founder and President of the National Action Network (NAN). “We are coming out of the bloodiest Juneteenth weekend on record, as we are supposed to be celebrating Black pride and excellence. Being a Black father is a blessing and it’s a responsibility to stand up when his family is under threat. Black fathers must step up to the existential threat to gun violence and end the pain plaguing our neighborhoods.”

"At Metropolitan Baptist Church, we firmly believe that gun violence is not solely a societal issue; it is an issue that lies at the heart of fathers and families," said Pastor Dr. David Jefferson Sr., Esq., Pastor of the Metropolitan Baptist Church in Newark. "Our children and families deserve to feel safe within their own communities. As a unified Black community, we must break free from the shackles of fear that have confined us and reclaim the autonomy and wellbeing of our neighborhoods. It is time for fathers to rise up, to engage in this transformative movement, and to champion the safety and security of our communities."

Rev. Al Sharpton delivered a powerful keynote sermon on why fathers must become active agents of change. The Father’s Day service served as a rallying cry, addressing the challenges and solutions faced by a community directly impacted by gun violence. Through poignant sermons, heartfelt testimonials, and engaging discussions, the service provided invaluable guidance, resources, and support for fathers seeking to educate, protect, and reassure their children.

Gun violence has become a devastating concern affecting families nationwide, with its impact acutely felt within our Black community. Gun violence has been on the rise since the COVID-19 pandemic, with a 34% increase in Black Americans dying of firearm homicides between 2019 and 2020, according to the CDC. Recognizing the gravity of this crisis, Metropolitan Baptist Church dedicated its Father’s Day service to spotlight the crucial role fathers can play in combating gun violence and cultivating safer communities for our youth.