CHICAGO ~ Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson joined forces with Project sWISH Chicago (PSC) today to launch the 29 Hours of Peace "community lock-in" event. The event, held at Kennedy-King College, aims to bring together over 150 young men aged 14-21 for a day of healing activities, community discussions, and organized basketball.

The highlight of the event was the "Brotherhood Circle," a discussion moderated by mental health advocate Rwenshaun Miller. The panelists included Dr. Roshaun Bowens and Corderius Cowans, both educational leaders and licensed counselors. The conversation was designed to encourage honest dialogue, accountability, and leadership among young men.

Mayor Johnson emphasized the importance of involving young people in conversations about violence prevention and community building. "Our young people must be part of the conversation as we build upon the efforts that are driving down violence in our communities," he said. "By showing up today and engaging in this conversation they are providing invaluable feedback and insight while contributing to our collective work to build a safer city."

Deputy Mayor of Community Safety Garien Gatewood also stressed the significance of the event in promoting healing and strengthening neighborhoods. "This 29 hour 'community lock-in' is more than an event, it's a movement," he stated. "By creating space for community, honest dialogue, healing, and positive competition this event affirms that our youth are heard, valued and supported."

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The 29 Hours of Peace community lock-in is an annual event that seeks to reduce violence and promote mental wellness among youth. It also aims to strengthen communities by bringing young men together through sports, creative activities, and mental wellness programming.

Founder of Project sWish Chicago McKinley Nelson shared his personal connection to the cause. "29 Hours of Peace is how I choose to celebrate my 29th birthday," he said. "It amplifies the message that peace is possible when communities come together." Nelson, a lifelong Chicagoan, founded Project sWish in 2018 after losing multiple close friends to gun violence. Since then, the organization has brought together over 7,000 young people through free weekly basketball leagues, community events, and health equity programs.

The event was a testament to the power of community and the importance of involving young people in discussions about violence prevention and mental wellness. Mayor Johnson and Deputy Mayor Gatewood reaffirmed the city's commitment to expanding anti-violence programs and partnering with organizations like Project sWish.

As the 29 Hours of Peace community lock-in continues to grow and make a positive impact on Chicago's youth, it serves as a reminder that peace is possible when communities come together.

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