Gun Violence on Trial – Testimony before the court
Statement of Darrell (Drick) Boyd
Eastern University, West Philly Mennonite Fellowship (Philadelphia, PA)
I am aware of the charges that have been brought against me. I want to make clear that did not go to Colisimos Gun shop on January 16 to create a public inconvenience or to cause harm to anyone. I went to communicate my concern about illegal guns on the streets of our city and to invite Mr. Colismo to join in the effort to stop the flow of those guns, some of which come from his store
Statement of Kemah Washington
Father Paul Washington Committee, Church of the Advocate (Philadelphia, PA)
Your Honor, Being arrested January was never my intention. I did not go to be a nuisance nor did go to engage in any tumultuous behavior but I hear the cries from our children and knew I had to react to their cries, I knew I had to stand up and be a voice for those who have been killed or maimed by gun violence.
Statement of Mimi Copp
Brethren in Christ, Circle of Hope, Shalom House (Philadelphia, PA)
Good afternoon, your honor. My name is Miriam Copp. I live at 401 S. 51st St. I have been a resident of Phila for the last 7 years living in Germantown, Mt. Airy and now West Philadelphia
I am a Christian Peacemaker by vocation. I live with 3 other Christians in a community house called Shalom House, which we founded 2 years ago, where we live and work together engaging in pro-active peacemaking.
Statement of Noah Baker Merrill
Religious Society of Friends, Putney Meeting (Brattleboro, VT)
I am a lifelong member of the Religious Society of Friends, also known as Quakers. My meeting has recognized in me the call to ministry among Friends, in other communities, and among the people of Iraq. The foundation of my faith is the reality and movement in the world of a God who is Peace, and who calls us to live in that Life and Power that takes away the occasion for all war and violence.
Statement of Rev. David Tatgenhorst
Pastor St. Luke United Methodist Church, Bryn Mawr
My name is Rev. David Tatgenhorst. I have made my home in West Philadelphia for the last 32 years. I have served churches in South Philadelphia, West Philadelphia, and Bryn Mawr. My 13 year old son graduates after 8 years at a Philadelphia public school next month.
Statement of Rev. Fred Kauffman
Mennonite Central Committee (Philadelphia, PA)
I am J. Fred Kauffman, Philadelphia Program Coordinator for the Mennonite Central Committee, the international relief, development, and peace-building organization of Mennonite & Brethren in Christ churches.
I have lived in Philly for 15 years, 11+ years as pastor of West Philly Mennonite Fellowship, and 3+ years with MCC.
Statement of Rev. Isaac Miller
Rector of the Church of the Advocate, Philadelphia
My name is Isaac Miller. I am pastor of the Church of the Advocate at 18th and Diamond Streets in North Philadelphia. I have lived in Philadelphia for the last 23 years. I have served at the Advocate for the last 20 years.
Statement of Rev. Phil Jones
Church of the Brethren (State College, PA)
My name is Phil Jones. I have served the last six years as director of the Washington Office for the Church of the Brethren. In this capacity I have served the larger church, including congregations and individuals in the Philadelphia region, in regards to issues of peace and justice.
Statements from the courtroom audience
12 defendants stood trial for their acts against gun violence.
Over 200 others came to the trial to show their support.
What brought people out on a rainy work day? Here were some of the responses from court room.
"In support of the 12 defendants, in greater support of the belief that a firm but peaceful stance against violence, not guns, is the way to reconciliation."
"Loving and supporting those who are willing to stand up against violence."