In a powerful display of community solidarity, City Councilmember Pierina Sanchez (C.D. 14) joined forces with the Bronx Rises Against Gun Violence (B.R.A.G.) and several other anti-violence organizations for a rally at St. James Park on March 6, 2026. This event was a direct response to a recent nonfatal shooting in the area that left a 35-year-old man hospitalized.
The rally aimed to foster unity and encourage residents to seek peaceful solutions instead of resorting to violence. Various speakers, including representatives from groups like RTG (Release the Group), Bronx Connect, and Guns Down, Life Up, spoke passionately about the importance of community support in addressing the root causes of gun violence.
Speaking in both Spanish and English, Sanchez emphasized the need for collective action, stating, “We are one community, and anyone who’s picking up a gun is somebody’s sister, brother, or family member.” She urged the audience to communicate with their neighbors and advocate for non-violent paths, sharing her own journey from the Bronx to prestigious educational institutions like Harvard and Princeton.
Sanchez highlighted the importance of community involvement, advocating for local initiatives that promote education and wellness. “When B.R.A.G. comes out here and they talk about their work to stop the violence, that’s Step 1 in our community, but Step 2 through 10 is you, speaking to our neighbors,” she said, rallying the crowd with chants of “Release the Grip” and “I B.R.A.G., We B.R.A.G.”
Jessica Carabaya from B.R.A.G. detailed the resources available to the community, including job assistance, mentorship programs, and creative outlets like music production. “We’re here to support,” she affirmed, inviting individuals to seek help and take advantage of the positive opportunities offered.
Primo, a hospital responder, also addressed attendees, sharing his experiences witnessing the impact of violence in the community. He led the crowd in the chant, “Guns Down, Life Up,” calling for unity and resilience against the cycle of violence.
The rally drew participants from various neighborhoods, underscoring the shared commitment to reducing gun violence. Brittany Davis from B.R.A.G. noted their success in achieving 416 days without shootings, but stressed that more work is needed to protect the community, especially with proximity to schools and parks.
As the event unfolded, speakers highlighted personal transformations and the importance of creating a culture that rejects violence. One young member from Guns Down, Life Up shared his journey from involvement in gun violence to becoming a productive member of the community, demonstrating the potential for change.
Despite the encouraging turnout and messages of hope, statistics indicate a troubling rise in gun violence throughout the Bronx, with boroughwide murders up 26.7% year-to-date. This rally served as a reminder of the ongoing challenges and the need for continued efforts to foster a safer environment.
In conclusion, Sanchez called upon the community to “put the guns down and let’s lift one another up,” reinforcing the message that collective action is essential in the fight against gun violence. The rally at St. James Park was not just a response to a recent tragedy but a call to action for a united community to advocate for peace and safety.
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