MONCKS CORNER, S.C. – More than 10 years after her son was fatally shot, Sylvia Blake keeps his memory alive through her nonprofit, The Bradley Blake Foundation. Named after her son, the organization serves as a platform to advocate against gun violence.
“If Bradley were able to witness the impactful continuation of his legacy through the foundation, we firmly believe he would be immensely proud of the efforts to assist others and bridge divides within the community, all for the greater good,” Blake told The Berkeley Observer. “The foundation’s commitment to carrying forward Bradley’s vision serves as a testament to his everlasting influence and the positive change that can be achieved when compassion and determination unite.”
On Saturday, the foundation hosted its fifth annual Tri-County Orange Walk at the Moncks Corner Recreation Complex. Decked out in orange T-shirts, more than 300 people – the largest crowd to date – attended the event.
“The annual orange walk against gun violence is crucial for its role in raising awareness, advocating for change, fostering community engagement, and working towards the prevention of gun violence in our communities,” Blake said. “It serves as a powerful platform to unite individuals and communities in their collective effort to address this pressing issue and create a safer future for all.”
South Carolina has the 13th-highest rate of gun violence in the United States. In an average year, 908 people die and 1,780 are wounded by guns in South Carolina, Every Town, a nonprofit organization that tracks shootings nationwide, reports.
For Blake, those numbers hit close to home. In 2012, her son was found in his car on Willowood Road in Pineville shot to death. Two people were ultimately charged in connection with his death and sent to prison.
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Gov. Henry McMaster has taken some steps to keep guns out of the wrong hands. At a news conference Tuesday at the State House, he urged the General Assembly to pass enhanced penalties for illegal gun possession.
“The General Assembly must pass bond reform so that when someone is arrested and out on bond on one crime and they are arrested for another crime, they should face a mandatory five-year conviction for that second crime,” he said. “We’ve just got to keep these people from killing South Carolinians.”
In addition to politicians taking measures to minimize shooting deaths, Blake believes action must also be taken on the local level.
We’ve made great progress boosting law enforcement’s pay, equipment, and training, but they still face a deadly threat from repeat violent criminals. It’s time for the General Assembly to pass bond reform and increase penalties for illegal gun possession to protect our officers. pic.twitter.com/FuWAp10s92
— Gov. Henry McMaster (@henrymcmaster) June 6, 2023
“Addressing gun violence at the local level demands a comprehensive and collaborative approach that involves multiple stakeholders. It is imperative for the community, law enforcement agencies, and activists to join forces and work together towards finding effective solutions,” Blake said. “This collective effort is crucial to make significant progress in curbing gun violence.”
The Goose Creek Police Department, the Moncks Corner Police Department and the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office took part in this year’s annual Tri-County Orange Walk. Sponsors, partners, vendors, participants and volunteers also contributed to the event’s success, according to Blake. She is now currently planning next year’s walk.
“The Bradley Blake Foundation extends our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who played a part in the immense success of the 2023 Tri-County Orange Walk against gun violence!” Blake said. “With unwavering commitment, our aim is to surpass the achievements of previous years and offer something fresh and impactful to the community through this cherished occasion.”
For the latest updates on The Bradley Blake Foundation and to stay connected with ongoing initiatives, follow them on Facebook or visit: bradleyblakefoundation.org.
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