ROYS Inspires Students to Choose Peace and Safety

To Watch: https://www.abccolumbia.com/2025/10/15/taking-the-pledge-students-sign-promise-to-reject-gun-violence

In recognition of the Day of National Concern, students across Orangeburg joined a national movement to reject gun violence by signing personal pledges to choose peace and protect their futures. The event, led in part by Reclaiming Our Youth Services (ROYS), reached students from William J. Clark Middle School, Refocus Academy, and The Star Center — empowering young people to take a stand for safety and hope.

ROYS founder Michelle A. Wilson Green, who lost her sons Isaac and Carlton to gun violence, shared her powerful story of grief transformed into purpose. Through her work and partnership with Voices of Black Mothers United, she continues to lead efforts that help youth understand the lasting impact of their choices and the importance of speaking up.

She was joined by Brian Howard, a man who once took a life at seventeen but now uses his testimony to steer children away from the same path. Together, their message was clear:

“It’s on us as a community to stop gun violence — we can’t wait on someone else to do it.”

Since its founding, the Day of National Concern has inspired over 10 million students to sign the pledge. ROYS is proud to help bring this life-changing initiative to the next generation.