Wear Orange Weekend Honors Victims of Gun Violence, Calls for Change

Public Health Madison & Dane County, City and County leaders, and the Madison Police Department are joining a nationwide call to end gun violence with a series of “Wear Orange Weekend” awareness events.

“Gun violence is now the leading cause of death for youth in America. Here in Dane County, we’re losing someone to gun violence every 10 days from suicide, accidents, and homicide. These are not just numbers. They represent lives, families, and futures stolen from our community,” said Janel Heinrich, Director of Public Health Madison & Dane County.

The Wear Orange movement began after the death of 15-year-old Hadiya Pendleton in Chicago in 2013. Friends and loved ones honored her by wearing orange. The color is meant to symbolize what hunters wear in the woods to protect themselves and others.

“Preventing gun violence starts in our homes. Gun owners must start securing firearms properly in the home and use trigger locks and gun safes. Storing guns in cars or carrying them unprotected is unsafe and not responsible ownership,” Acting Madison Police Chief John Patterson.

This weekend, the community is invited to take part in events for remembering victims of violence, honoring survivors, and supporting prevention efforts. The schedule of events includes:

• Friday, June 6: Wear Orange Weekend kickoff and art installation
  • Where: Brix Cider Patio (119 S 2nd St, Mt Horeb)
  • When: 4:00p-7:00p
• Saturday, June 7: Candlelight vigil to remember victims of violence and rally for change
  • Where: Capitol Steps (W. Mifflin & N. Carroll)
  • When: 6:00p-7:30p
• Sunday, June 8: Community gathering & resource event with food, music, and speakers
  • Where: North Sherman Avenue Methodist Church (3705 N. Sherman Ave., Madison)
  • When: 1:00p-3:00p

“Every person in Madison deserves to feel safe in their home, their neighborhood, their school, and their workplace,” said Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway. “Gun violence is a public safety crisis that demands a wholistic and community-wide response. Each of us can take action to educate ourselves, prevent accidental shootings, and reduce violence in our city. Together, we can create a community where we choose safety and resolve conflicts without resorting to violence.”

“This is not only about honoring the victims and standing with survivors but also calling on our neighbors to join us in advocating for common-sense gun safety measures. Talk to your legislators and support violence prevention programs in our community. Every person can make a difference. I am proud to continue supporting this movement.” said Dane County Executive Melissa Agard.

The Wear Orange campaign supports Everytown for Gun Safety, an organization led by parents, students, survivors, and educators dedicated to ending gun violence. 

Everyone is welcome to attend any of the Wear Orange Weekend events. Find more information on the events page.