Survivors of Violence Demand Increased Support at California Capitol
By Antonio Ray Harvey, California Black Media
On January 13, in a powerful gathering at the State Capitol, survivors of violence, community activists, and lawmakers united to voice a pressing call for change in California. Participants from various regions including Stockton, the Bay Area, Sacramento, Los Angeles, San Diego, and parts of the Central Valley came together to advocate for increased investments in victim support, prevention programs, and harm reduction initiatives.
A Call for Action
Tinisch Hollins, a notable advocate for victims of violence and the executive director of Californians for Safety and Justice (CSJ), played a crucial role in organizing this event. Her passionate plea for resource allocation underscored the urgent needs of survivors. “We are calling on the state to prioritize three investments,” Hollins stated emphatically. She urged for funding focused on flexible cash assistance for survivors, trauma recovery centers, and free mental health services for children and youth affected by gun violence.
The Reality of Gun Violence
The backdrop to this assembly was the troubling increase in gun violence, particularly in Stockton, where recent gang-related activities have raised concerns. On November 29, 2025, a tragic mass shooting at an unlicensed banquet hall during a children’s birthday party devastated the community, claiming the lives of four individuals, including three children, and injured 13 others. The San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office is still investigating, seeking leads on two suspect vehicles connected to the incident.
Families of the victims were present at the conference, sharing their heartbreak and calling for justice and support. Among these was Patrick Peterson, whose 14-year-old son Amari was among those killed. The stories of these families added a deeply personal dimension to the advocates’ calls for action.
Voices from the Community
Community leaders, including the Rev. William T. DeArmond Jr. and State Sen. Jerry McNerney (D-Pleasanton), lent their support to the cause. McNerney expressed the need for California to invest adequately in preventive measures so that no other families have to face similar tragedies. “I believe that California should invest more in victim prevention so others won’t be affected by these kinds of events,” he emphasized.
Amari Peterson was more than just a victim; he was an honor roll student with ambitions. His father, visibly shaken by the loss, stated, “My son is gone, he’s never coming back, and it’s for no apparent reason.” The family’s suffering was compounded by a sense of isolation and inadequate support during such a critical time.
Support Systems and Community Resilience
Leia Schenk, an activist and social worker, was on hand to assist families like the Petersons through this heart-wrenching time. Her nonprofit organization, EMPACT, works tirelessly to support victims of violent crimes—especially marginalized communities. Schenk’s insights revealed how the trauma extends far beyond the immediate aftermath of violence, affecting families in profound and lasting ways.
“Without secure housing and access to trauma-informed therapeutic services, healing is impossible,” she explained, highlighting the dire need for systemic support to help families stabilize after violence devastates their lives.
Government Response
Reflecting on the dire situation, Gov. Gavin Newsom addressed the issue of crime in his State of the State speech on January 8. He emphasized California’s commitment to reducing crime, specifically mentioning the expansion of crime suppression teams in areas like Stockton. This move is aimed at targeting repeat offenders and curbing illegal guns and drugs, underscoring a multi-faceted approach to community safety.
“Our priority is the community’s safety,” stated CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee, reaffirming the importance of a strong law enforcement presence in combating violence and fostering a sense of security.
A Community United for Change
The press conference at the State Capitol was more than just a call to action; it was a poignant reminder of the need for solutions that prioritize the well-being of all Californians. Survivors, families, and advocates unite in the belief that without systemic changes and adequate resources, communities will continue to bear the heavy burden of violence and trauma.
With their voices raised, they continue to push for accountability and transformation, seeking a future where safety and support are not just ideals, but realities for every Californian.
