In its twelfth year, the Race Against Gun Violence, organized by Strides for Peace, is set to return to Grant Park on June 5, 2025. This event has evolved from a tragic beginning into a vital fundraising effort focused on combating gun violence in Chicago.
The origins of the race date back to 2007 when Blair Holt, a 16-year-old, was fatally shot on a CTA bus. This tragic event ignited a passion within Maggie Baczkowski, who went on to establish Strides for Peace in 2014.
Rubye Lane, the director of Community Outreach for Strides for Peace, emphasized that the primary objective has always been to unite communities across the city. “The goal was basically to get communities from north, south, east and west all together to run as a way to come together,” Lane explained.
The race raises crucial funds for grassroots organizations that have long been on the front lines of the fight against gun violence. Last year’s event saw nearly 1,500 participants and raised over $250,000, with expectations set even higher for this year.
“We’d like to see 2,000 or 3,000 runners,” Lane stated, indicating the potential for greater community involvement.
The funds generated by the race will directly support organizations like Diane Latiker’s “Kids Off the Block” in Roseland and “Paving the Way” in Washington Park, both of which provide essential resources and programming aimed at saving lives.
“Whether it’s providing shelter, resources, or activities, that’s saving lives,” Lane noted, adding that keeping potential victims engaged in positive activities is a key goal.
This year’s race will feature various options, including an 8K run, a 5K run, a two-mile walk, and a unique “Kids for Peace” sprint, allowing children to engage in the festivities.
The overall experience has been enhanced with a village area where participants can interact with the organizations involved, along with a program that includes awards and live music throughout the event.
“This is a day for all to gather to honor those working day in and day out to alter the Chicago narrative,” Lane said.
Corporate support has been instrumental in the race’s success, with backing from organizations such as the Burt Family Foundation, Blue Cross Blue Shield, the University of Chicago Crime Lab, and the Field Foundation.
Lane expressed gratitude for this corporate involvement, stating, “I think our corporate partners see the value in the race, and they see the value and the longevity of Strides for Peace.”
She underscored the importance of viewing gun violence as a citywide issue rather than isolating it to specific neighborhoods.
“This is not just a South Side issue. This is not just a West Austin issue. This is a Chicago issue, and more or less, it’s a national issue.”
Looking ahead, Lane envisions the Race Against Gun Violence evolving into a national movement, with similar events taking place in cities like Los Angeles, New York, and St. Louis.
“We know that if we work hand in hand with our community organizations, with our partners, that this race can be duplicated across the country,” she said.
Lane sees the event as a template for other cities, aiming to empower local organizations and connect them with corporate partners to foster safer communities.
As participants prepare for the event on June 5, they can expect a day filled with inspiration and a chance to reflect on their own communities.
“Surrounding neighborhoods can expect a great race with good people who are doing exceptional work,” Lane assured.
Not only will participants enjoy the energy of the event, but they will also leave with a renewed sense of commitment to contribute positively to their communities.
For those interested in joining the movement against gun violence, more information and registration for the Race Against Gun Violence 2025 can be found at www.stridesforpeace.org.
The event schedule is as follows:
5:00 PM – Charity Set-Up
6:00 PM – Welcome, Warm-Up & Kids for Peace Sprint
6:30 PM – Race Start (8K, 5K, 2-Mile Walk).
As this year’s race approaches, the hope is for an even larger turnout to strengthen the fight against gun violence and foster community togetherness.
image source from：https://chicagodefender.com/race-against-gun-violence-returns-to-chicago/?utm_source=newsshowcase&utm_medium=gnews&utm_campaign=CDAqEAgAKgcICjCNsMkLMM3L4AMwrfXkAw&utm_content=rundown
