2026 Race Against Gun Violence held in Grant Park
More than 1,000 people ran through Grant Park and along the Chicago lakefront on Thursday evening for the 13th annual Race Against Gun Violence.
The race – which included an 8K run, a 5K run, a 2-mile walk, and a Kids for Peace sprint – was organized by Strides for Peace to celebrate the life-changing work of community organizations that work to combat gun violence in Chicago every day, and raise money to help them continue to provide their vital services to the city.
Every step counts, and all proceeds raised from the race go directly to support efforts to end gun violence in Chicago.
The Race to End Gun Violence and Strides For Peace support more than 100 Chicago organizations. They all work to eradicate gun violence or assist victims and families impacted by the ongoing problem.
Organizers hope by walking or running in downtown, they also will bring awareness to the face of every victim.
"We see every day the news in Chicago. We live in a beautiful city, and this race, it means a lot," said Linda Sabo, who walked in the 5K.
More than 1,300 people who registered for the race, running to eradicate gun violence and help those impacted.
"Even individuals who have not been directly impacted by gun violence are out here tonight," said Strides for Peace co-chair Rubye Lane. "This is definitely a movement, and a movement with a great cause."
The race is the biggest fundraiser for Strides for Peace, and this year, the record number of runners equaled a record level of money raised.
"We have raised over $155,000," Lane said.
Veronica Higgins, with Purpose Over Pain, one of the groups supported by the race, said she wants to prevent other families from going through what she did after losing her son to gun violence.
"I couldn't keep my son alive, but I can keep his memory alive," she said. "Just know that, even though you took his life, you left a mother, brothers, children, and family that has a hole in their heart, trying to mend the pieces together."
