By: Tom Williams | June 30, 2026
CLARKSDALE, Miss. — The sounds of music, laughter, and heartfelt testimonies filled downtown Clarksdale over the weekend as A Journey In Our Shoes (AJIOS) Foundation hosted its 4th Annual Wear Orange Against Gun Violence Event & Food Truck Festival at the Blues Alley Stage.
The annual event brought together survivors, families, community leaders, local organizations, vendors, and residents from across the Mississippi Delta for an afternoon dedicated to honoring lives lost to gun violence while promoting healing, hope, and community unity.
Co-Founded by Rose Jordan and LeKitha Hill, AJIOS was created from lived experiences and a shared commitment to preventing gun violence and supporting families affected by tragedy. The foundation focuses on survivor support, youth mentorship, violence prevention education, advocacy, and community outreach throughout Clarksdale, Coahoma County, and the Mississippi Delta.
Throughout the day, attendees enjoyed live entertainment while also taking part in meaningful conversations centered on peace and violence prevention. Musical performances by Kevn the Gentleman, BossLady, Edna Nicole, and the Flawless Empire Dance Team energized the crowd, while DJ Donny P kept the atmosphere lively with music throughout the festival.
Children enjoyed bounce houses and family-friendly activities, ensuring the event remained a place where healing and hope could be experienced by every generation.
One of the day’s most powerful moments came as families of gun violence victims courageously shared their personal stories. Their testimonies served as emotional reminders of the devastating impact gun violence leaves on families and communities while encouraging others to work together to prevent future tragedies.
Community organizations also played an important role in the event. The Mississippi Delta Council distributed free fresh fruit to attendees, promoting healthy living alongside community wellness. The Coahoma County Sheriff’s Department was also present, demonstrating its commitment to partnering with residents and local organizations in efforts to reduce violence and strengthen public safety.
Local vendors and food trucks lined the festival grounds, providing a variety of food, products, and services while creating opportunities for small businesses to engage with the community.
For AJIOS, the event represents far more than a community gathering. It is an opportunity to honor the memories of David Jordan, Artis Jordan, and Dayeveon Hill, whose lives were tragically lost to gun violence in 2017, 2021, and 2023. Their memories continue to inspire the foundation’s mission to transform grief into action and advocate for safer communities.
As attendees wore orange in solidarity, organizers reminded the crowd that the national Wear Orange movement symbolizes the value of every human life and calls on communities to stand together against gun violence.
Now in its fourth year, the Wear Orange Against Gun Violence Event continues to grow, serving as a powerful reminder that lasting change begins when communities unite with compassion, courage, and a shared commitment to choosing peace over violence.
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