Indianapolis has experienced heartbreaking violence this summer.

Violence and shootings have often increased during summer months, typically peaking on July 4 and 5 — a combination of warm weather, increased gatherings, increased drinking and youth left out of school. Indianapolis is no different. This past 4th of July weekend, five people tragically lost their lives. Two of them — Xavion Jackson and Azareaon S. Cole — were teenagers.

These people are more than headlines. They are people who loved and were loved; now, our community is left grieving.

It’s hard to find words to ease the pain of those who have lost loved ones to gun violence or who have experienced gun violence themselves. We need parents, grandparents, community leaders, pastors and elected officials to all come together

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