Chairman Reboyras to introduce a resolution in recognition of the Strides for Peace Race

CHICAGO - May 7, 2019 - PRLog -- Chairman Ariel E. Reboyras will introduce a resolution to the City Council in support of the Strides for Peace Race Against Gun Violence (RAGV), taking place in Grant Park's Arvey Field the evening of June 6, 2019. With a continued sense of urgency about gun violence and a new administration, there is no better time to bring the city together to a stand against gun violence and celebrate hope for a better Chicago.

In June, more than 40 nonprofit organizations from throughout Chicago will participate, as well as 12 Civic Partners, ranging from the Wu-Tang Foundation, to the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce, the Chicago Police Department to the Archdiocese of Chicago. This is the 6th year of the event and the persistence of Chicago's gun violence problem has fueled an appetite for people from diverse backgrounds to come together and be part of the solution. Whereas other Chicago area races are experiencing declines in registration, RAGV is currently experiencing a 35% increase.

In 2018, the Race Against Gun Violence drew participants from 175 different zip codes, creating an unprecedented opportunity to bring our beautiful city together: 36% came from the wealthiest and 34% from the poorest areas of our city, demonstrating that Strides for Peace is unique in bringing together people who may not interact in their everyday lives, but who share a common vision of a safer Chicago where all can thrive.

"Don't get me wrong, "said Mary Stonor Saunders, Strides for Peace's executive director, "the Race Against Gun Violence offers a beautiful USATF-certified lakefront course, with a race for every age and level of fitness. But it is much more than a race – it is a new platform to bring out the best of our city, foster collaboration and support organizations who are making a difference every day."

In addition to a memorial installation by Greg Zanis of Crosses for Losses, collaborative performances by the Chicago Symphony's Civic Orchestra and special guests, RAGV provides nonprofit organizations a range of benefits including 100% of donations, training, community registrations and onsite booths.

"Our city faces many challenges in the fight to end gun violence. But there are also people who work every day to save lives -- we need to amplify their voices and support and celebrate their work."

About Strides for Peace: Founded in 2014 by Margaret Baczkowski, Strides for Peace is a registered 501(c)(3).  Our mission is to increase the collective impact of community organizations working to stop gun violence, save lives and build a stronger Chicago.  Visit us at http://www.stridesforpeace.org