FIGHTING CRIME WITH COMPASSION

New program helps fight the destructive effects associated with gun violence
Senator Jacqueline Collins goes one-on-one with the Citizen to discuss a new anti-violence program focused around community trauma centers.
Senator Jacqueline Collins goes one-on-one with the Citizen to discuss a new anti-violence program focused around community trauma centers.

Q & A FIGHTING CRIME WITH COMPASSION New program helps fight the destructive effects associated with gun violence

By Christopher Shuttlesworth

A new anti-violence program focused around community trauma centers will aim to address the destructive effects of gun violence now that a measure co-sponsored by State Senator Jacqueline Collins has been signed into law. The legislation, which was Senate Bill 2872 in the 99th General Assembly, tasks the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority with assisting in the implementation of trauma recovery services for violent crime victims in underserved communities with high-levels of violent

crime. Programs would tackle problems like behavioral health treatment, financial recovery, family support and relocation assistance, and advice for navigating the legal system, according to a press release.

The Chicago Citizen interviewed Sen. Collins about the anti violence programs, the benefits of the programs and the severity,

reality and trauma faced after gun violence.

Citizen Senator, in what ways do you feel the new anti-violence programs will help with the trauma of gun violence? Collins

Gun violence is more than just a mortal wound to the body.

It also inflicts great wounds on the community by disrupting

stability, forcing families into the hospital, prison, or court systems,

and inflicting financial hardship that carries over to so many other

parts of life. These problems create a vicious cycle where violence can happen again and again. The community-based, trauma recovery programs we’re talking about are aimed at those root causes. The hope is that if we disrupt that vicious cycle, we can prevent more acts of violence that will beget more acts violence.

Citizen What are your thoughts on the mental trauma that is faced after these violent experiences? Collins

When individuals are incapacitated by mental

trauma it destroys their sense of self-esteem, worth, and

continues to imprison them in a cycle of helplessness and

hopelessness. It’s a mental paralysis that stifles any future

growth.

Citizen Do you know anyone who has suffered any trauma from gun violence? Collins

I have worked closely and interacted with the group Purpose Over Pain. Many of these members -mothers, fathers, sisters and other family members have lost loved ones at the hands of violence. They have used their pain as a platform to change the culture of gun violence, and they

work and advocate for common sense gun laws to restrict

the flow of illegal guns that continue to decimate and

destroy the stability of our communities.

Citizen Do you think there should be stricter gun laws so citizens can potentially be less likely to experience this type of trauma? Collins

Punitive criminal justice penalties have a lasting, negative impact on communities of color. A strong body of research suggests that incarceration alone without meaningful rehabilitative services and after care support will increase risk of reoffending after release. Our response to the gun violence must be smart, strategic, and grounded in evidence–based solutions. We can’t arrest poverty, and we can’t prosecute poor education, but we can try to keep guns out of the hands of people who should not have them. As we work to adjust laws to address this epidemic, we need to consider all the implications of all possible remedies.

Citizen How soon will the anti-programs be implemented around the communities? Collins

This legislation lays the groundwork for studies that will tell us how we can best implement these programs, where, and in exactly what form. It may be some time before we see the first initiatives based on this legislation,

but I am committed to working with the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority to ensure their report to the General Assembly – including guidelines for such programs – is researched thoroughly and issued swiftly.

Citizen Do you feel that community mothers, fathers and even teens will be receptive to the programs? Collins

Members of the community have been brave and vocal in calling for answers. We know they want more than just harsh sentences and tougher policing. I know there is a sense in the community that compassion is the answer to this problem.

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