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Championing Change: Deaunte Damper's Vision for Community Safety and Accountability

Last week on a special 100 Days of Action episode of The Day with Trae, host Trae Holiday interviewed Deaunte Damper, a dedicated advocate and host with Converge Media, to discuss his pivotal role in the 100 Days of Action campaign. Damper's work, grounded in a deep commitment to community safety and accountability, underscores the urgency of addressing gun violence and its impact on youth.

Damper, reflecting on the week's powerful actions, highlights his work with the Central District Public Safety Accountability (CD PSA) group. This initiative, sparked by the tragic shooting at A 4 Apple Learning Center, aims to hold city officials and systems accountable for their roles in public safety. The CD PSA meetings bring together diverse community members, including school PTSA groups, youth organizations, and local health departments, to address gun violence and foster collaborative solutions.

Damper's drive stems from personal connections and a profound sense of responsibility. He draws inspiration from individuals like Nathaniel Thomas and Elijah Lewis, whose stories fuel his determination to seek justice and prevent further suffering. His efforts are not only about addressing immediate issues but also about creating lasting change through community engagement and accountability.

Throughout the interview, Damper emphasizes the importance of collective action. He notes the wide range of voices involved in the initiative, from elected officials to youth mentors, all working towards a common goal. The response from the community has been encouraging, with involvement spanning various demographics and backgrounds, all united in their commitment to tackling violence and supporting one another.

Looking to the future, Damper expresses hope for a community where gun violence is no longer a pervasive issue. He advocates for continued engagement and systemic changes to prevent future tragedies. His vision is clear: to stop the cycle of suffering and ensure that every effort contributes to a safer, more accountable community.

For those interested in participating in these crucial discussions, Damper invites the public to the next CD PSA meeting on September 17 at Garfield High School from 7 to 9 pm. Community members can also reach out via email to get involved and support these vital efforts.

For more information on the 100 Days of Action campaign visit kingcounty.gov.

Tune into The Day With Trae this week at 11am for insightful discussions addressing gun violence in our communities.