Mothers Against Violence Alliance

Over 200 grassroots leaders, activists, service providers, and community workers around the country will gather in Boston, October 16-17, 2025, at the 11th Annual Conference of the Mothers Against Violence National Alliance, convened by the 15-year-old Boston organization Mothers for Justice and Equality. The Alliance comprises established agencies and mothers just beginning to move their pain into purpose. Together, we represent cities and towns across the country with one common goal: Ending Gun Violence. In every case, the grassroots organizations in the National Alliance grew as a response to the death of a loved one. These grassroots leaders found that they were able to enhance their healing from the trauma in their lives by working to heal others who have also suffered from gun violence and address the root causes of violence in their own communities. The work of Alliance members is both goal-oriented and trauma-informed. For example, leadership and workforce trainings are designed to support each participant's recovery from trauma and future career and academic achievements. Importantly, we also aim to engage our participants in civic action so that they can be the voice of change in their homes, schools, and communities. The members of these organizations have found a vital purpose in this work. Success requires holding history and dreams in the same moment. A mother who has lost a child to gun violence must continue to provide emotional and economic support to her other children. This challenge of both repair and building requires compassion and clarity from service providers and case workers. Member organizations in the Alliance provide a range of services, including trauma recovery, case management, advocacy, scholarships, support groups, and more. Funding for this work comes from various sources, including federal, state, and local governments, foundations, individuals, and private donors. Additionally, much of the Alliance's work is driven by the dedicated efforts of its members. The Annual Mothers Against Violence National Conference allows us to connect with others through similar experiences to build community through connectivity. By sharing successes and providing technical assistance, we are shining a light on the power of those affected by gun violence and lifting them up to be our leaders in making our communities safer for our children.