Local organization is changing the conversation around gun violence in Toronto – events coming up for victims and survivors of Crime Week

BY: AYESHA KHAN

Reverend Sky Starr is no stranger to the realities of gun violence. As a grief counsellor and Executive Director of Out Of Bounds, she has been soothing and tending to bereaved families of victims of gun violence and other traumatic incidents for decades. 

Based in Downsview’s Jane and Finch neighbourhood, Reverend Sky has helped families all across the GTA and even across the border. As a familiar, established and published voice on the topic, she has been outspoken on the traumatic effects of gun violence, and the drastic measures needed to put a stop to it. 

“Gun violence trauma is not only crippling, but lasts a lifetime. Children, youth, mothers, families and communities are continuously affected. I’m humbled to provide competent care to victims and survivors over these past 17 years, while raising awareness about the need for tangible, permanent solutions to assist survivors.”

Reverend Sky argues that what’s missing from the conversation is a public health approach. For this reason, Out Of Bounds has hosted multiple conversations on the many facets of this crisis. This month, for Victims and Survivors of Crime Week from May 15th to the 21st of 2022, Out Of Bounds is hosting their 5th Annual VSCW event, a panel called "Is Gun Violence A Public Health Issue?" 

Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84636177535?pwd=OFVwMnhTN0E1VzZ3UVVlYVZwRmtuUT09

Esteemed guests include Toronto’s Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Eileen de Villa, Tazio Clarke of Ontario’s Victim / Witness Assistance Program, Patricia Wilson, Manager at the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services of Ontario, and S.J. Reid, a survivor. Former Police Board Chair, Alok Mukherjee, will provide opening remarks on this timely and much-needed conversation.

The diverse and experienced panel of experts will be tackling the issue of gun violence from the lens of public health and community safety, to focus on the unseen dimensions of the problem and posit some key solutions that can be implemented. 

Also taking place during the week is a Survivor’s Social on May 16th, where victims, bereaved families and allies alike can join for support and communal empowerment; especially important as this year’s theme for Victims and Survivors of Crime Week is the Power of Collaboration. 

Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89915089210?pwd=RkZlWjZQckVqOS9ya0krNmV0RWloZz09 

Reverend Sky’s many community events have been vital soul food for families in need, especially Black mothers who have lost children to gun violence. 

“I started attending these groups five years ago and I look forward to coming. I was a basket case when I started, because I lost my son. but I get a new message every time and it helps me to cope. This is very important work that Rev is doing and I try to bring someone new every time.” Shared a mother who wished to be known as P. 

“[I] received [a] clear message: “You’re not alone” as you’re amongst friends. They have been there and they know what it feels like. You’re never judged as you learn how to cope with your grief.” Shared Collette. 

The experience is also enriching for the many volunteers involved, who continue to give because the work is so meaningful. 

“This event, the only one of its kind, fills a critical gap by bringing the community (victims, survivors, policy makers, and first responders) together to de-stigmatize the impact of gun violence - the first step toward achieving long-lasting healing.” Opined Melinda, long-time volunteer with Out Of Bounds.

“These events help to bring people together who are isolated from their friends/community while experiencing grief and trauma.  You realize that you are not alone.  This experience is not your fault. Healing is a long journey but there is hope and help along the way.” Shared Kristine, another core volunteer.