Grandmothers Team Up Against Gun Violence

A roomful of grandmothers eating bacon and eggs listened intently as Police Commissioner Raymond W. Kelly stood at the podium to talk about gun violence.

Hattie Sills receives a certificate of recognition from New York City Police Commissioner Ray Kelly ( R) and NYPD Chief of Housing Joanne Jaffe (L) as a participant in the Grandmother LOV (Love Over Violence) program at 1 Police Plaza, the NYPD Headquarters in Manhattan on July 24. Benjamin Chasteen/The Epoch Times

NEW YORK—A roomful of grandmothers eating bacon and eggs listened intently as Police Commissioner Raymond W. Kelly stood at the podium to talk about gun violence.

“I thank you for coming to stand up for what’s right,” Kelly said at One Police Plaza Tuesday. “You have created your own network. ... Things are getting better in Brooklyn; you are making a difference.”

The grandmothers were at a breakfast ceremony to receive recognition for their efforts against gun violence. All 45 belong to a Brooklyn-based support group called Grandmothers Love Over Violence (LOV).

Inez Rodriguez, 59, slowly moved toward the platform aided by a walker to receive her award. Her red-dyed hair and pedicured feet a clue to her adamant will and hope.