On Tuesday, February 27, over 70 members of the TWK Conference joined other Tennesseans in Nashville for a “Day on the Hill for Gun Reform.” Representatives from numerous community and advocacy groups, faith traditions, and cities across Tennessee gathered in one voice to advocate for gun reform and increased gun safety.

The day began at McKendree UMC, where community members and survivors of gun violence spoke on the importance of policy changes around this issue. The group then marched to Legislative Plaza across from the Tennessee State Capitol Building for a press conference and rally. After lunch, people joined their teams in the Cordell Hull Building to listen in on committee meetings, pass out educational literature, and speak with elected officials.

One of the participants, Lynn Patterson, said that it was a deeply enriching experience. “I enjoyed learning about ways that United Methodists can advocate for social justice issues such as Gun Safety,” said Patterson. “We worked in groups to visit legislators and express our concerns about certain issues and to learn about their positions. In addition to meeting with individual legislators, we were able to attend committee meetings on various subjects. Overall, the experience helped me to understand the process we can follow going forward to voice our thoughts about important social issues.”

Members of the TWK Conference gather for a group photo in front of McKendree UMC.

TWK Conference members meet to discuss the schedule for the day.

McKendree UMC’s senior pastor, Rev. Dr. Stephen Handy, opens the event with a meditation on Micah 6:8.

People from across the state gather for a press conference in Leg Plaza in front of the Tennessee State Capitol Building.