June is now made Gun Violence Awareness month due to the tragic killing of Hadiya Pendleton at a park in Chicago on January 21, 2013. Her friends began to wear orange to commemorate her life.

Gun violence remains a significant public health issue in the United States, affecting individuals, families, and communities nationwide. Thousands of Americans lose their lives to gun violence each year, while many more experience physical injuries, emotional trauma, and long-term mental health consequences. Beyond the immediate loss of life, gun violence contributes to increased healthcare costs, community fear, reduced quality of life, and lasting impacts on survivors and families.

The Empty Chair Project recognizes that behind every statistic is a person, a family, and a future that was altered forever. By bringing attention to these stories and empowering communities to take action, the campaign seeks to transform loss into purpose and inspire collective efforts toward a safer future