Stop the Violence, Put the Beef on the Grill

The thoughts of Raven Sanders, interviewed by W/S Board Member Terrell Williams

For three years straight, it seemed like my family and friends were dropping like bowling pins and the bowling ball always seemed to be a gun. Why were so many people I knew dying from gun violence? Since a young age, gun violence has constantly followed me around like a shadow. It feels unescapable. It’s been said that the more something happens to you, the more you get used to it. However, that isn’t true when we’re talking about the pain you feel from losing someone to gun violence.  No mother or father should have to bury their child due to gun violence. The way I see it, too often, parents are watering graveyards with their tears while their children’s bodies act as fertilizer.

In 2014, the pot boiled over. Bullets claimed another friend’s life, Quinton “Joc” Logan. I couldn’t take it anymore.  Standing by and doing nothing was no longer an option.  Being an in-the-moment activist wasn’t an option either. There had to be something long-term. That’s when Stop the Violence, Put the Beef on the Grill was born.

Stop the Violence, Put the Beef on the Grill is an annual event for the community that focuses on preventing all types of violence while providing free food, games, prizes, and live performances. This event promotes peace, love, and unity. Look at it as a time of encouragement and a celebration. Encouraging our community to stand up against violence and celebrating the lives lost to violence as well as the ones who are currently fighting to prevent violence. I intend to host Stop the Violence, Put the Beef on the Grill for many years to come, God willing.

Everyone is encouraged to join us for an eventful day. 

Details for 2020 Stop the Violence, Put the Beef on the Grill

  • Date: Sunday, July 19, 2020

  • Location: Shawnee Park 4501 W Broadway, Louisville, KY 40211

  • Time: 12-7 PM

  • Free Food, Games, Prizes, & Live Performances

  • Masks are Highly Encouraged

For more information about becoming a donor, vendor, or sponsor, email Raven at ravensanders76@gmail.com.