Partners include the Chicago Police Department and the Chicago Department of Public Health

(Black PR Wire) Chicago, IL – The National Medical Association (NMA)’s Council on Violence Prevention will host a series of pivotal events focused on addressing gun violence in Black communities during the organization’s 123rd Annual Convention and Scientific Assembly. Led by Dr. Michael McGee, President of the Medical Staff and Emergency Department Medical Director at University of Chicago Medicine, Crown Point, IN, the NMA Violence Prevention Council has been at the forefront of efforts to tackle the public health crisis of firearm violence.

The convention will take place from July 19 –23, 2025 at the Hilton Chicago (720 Michigan Avenue), bringing together African American physicians and health professionals to discuss advances in medical science, share health policy priorities, and unite for meaningful community impact.

Violence Prevention Initiatives:

The NMA’s Violence Prevention Council is deeply committed to combating gun violence through strategic public education, professional training, and community engagement. This year’s initiative will directly address the disproportionate impact of firearm violence on Black youth and families, providing solutions, resources, and partnerships to build safer communities. Major partners in this effort include the Chicago Police Department and the Chicago Department of Public Health.

Community Health Fairs and Gun Safety Workshops:

On Friday, July 18th (1:00 PM – 4:00 PM), the Council will host four community health fairs and gun safety awareness workshops at various locations throughout Chicago, including: University of Chicago Centers for Care and Discover (5700 S. Maryland Street) Healthy Hood Chicago with Rush Medical Center (2242 S. Damen Avenue) Apostolic Faith Church (3823 S. Indiana Avenue), and Equality Should Be Normal with UIC ED Team and Illinois Heart Rescue (5336 S. State Street) in partnership with NMA members, Cook County Physicians Association, Residents and Medical Students, Chicago Police Department and the Chicago Department of Public Health, etc.

At 2:30 PM – 3:15 PM, a press conference will be held at Apostolic Faith Church, where speakers, including Pastor Dr. Horace Smith, NMA President Dr. Virginia A. Caine, and Illinois Congresswoman Robin Kelly, will highlight the importance of Black Health and discuss safe gun storage strategies.

Walk a Mile with a Child (WAMWAC):

On Saturday, July 19th (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM), the NMA will kick off the convention with the Walk a Mile with a Child (WAMWAC) event. This community-driven event will feature a one-mile walk through the city, symbolizing unity, wellness, and education. Following the walk, attendees will engage in an interactive STEM Fair, offering free health screenings, wellness resources, and hands-on STEM activities. Founded by Dr. Nelson Adams, WAMWAC raises awareness about healthy lifestyles in communities of color, focusing on the importance of physical activity and healthy eating.

Edward C. Mazique MD Symposium:

Later that day, from 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM, the Edward C. Mazique MD Symposium will address the theme: "Overcoming Urban Community Gun Violence: Where Do We Go from Here? The Blueprint: For US, By Us!"

This impactful session will feature distinguished speakers including:

Congresswoman Robin Kelly

Senator Dick Durbin

Former Secretary of Education Arne Duncan

Selwyn Rogers, Jr. MD, MPH, Chief, University of Chicago Trauma Center

Crystal Garrant, Executive Director, Sandy Hook Promise

Anthony Smith, Executive Director, Cities United

And more…

The symposium will focus on efforts to tackle gun violence in Black communities, including legislative measures, community-based interventions, firearm safety, and safe gun storage initiatives. Attendees will gain practical strategies for addressing gun violence, along with insights into ethical considerations for implementing these solutions in urban communities.

About the NMA:

The NMA is the nation’s oldest and largest organization representing Black physicians and health professionals in the U.S. and promotes the collective interests of physicians and patients of African descent. We serve as the voice of Black physicians and a leading voice for parity in medicine, elimination of health disparities and promotion of optimal health.

For more information on the NMA’s Violence Prevention Council initiatives and to register for events, please visit www.nmanet.org.

Dr. McGee is available for interviews. To schedule, email Chelsea@CWHITT.biz.