Tonight, three people were hospitalized and one died due to gun violence. This is yet another devestation to our community.  I've had friends who were there when these devastating events happened. I was there for just one of them. I can bet you more than half of the attendees to First Friday events were at the October 1st shooting, or were at the UNLV shooting, like me. There are now parents who are mourning the loss of their children. This is not just about statistics; these are real people whose lives have been cut short.

First Friday events in our city, which were once community driven gatherings celebrating local art and culture, have become increasingly dangerous. The rise in violence at these events has transformed what should be a family-friendly outing into a night filled with fear and uncertainty.

We cannot remain passive or allow these events to continue unchanged. The life lost today demands that we take action. We must prioritize the safety and well-being of our community members. This means implementing proactive safety measures such as increased security presence, better lighting, restricted access to certain areas, and heightened police surveillance.

Additionally, organizers of the First Friday events should work closely with local law enforcement, community leaders, and safety experts to devise a comprehensive safety plan. This plan should include clear, actionable strategies to prevent violence and ensure that these events can resume safely for everyone involved.

We cannot let another tragedy unfold before our eyes. Canceling these events would be a last resort, but without substantial safety improvements, it may become the only option.

Sign this petition to urge our city officials and event organizers to take immediate and effective action to protect our community during First Friday events. Together, we can work towards a solution that honors the lives lost and makes our community safer for everyone.