Former Dolton Mayor Calls for Action on Gun Violence After Father Shot

Tiffany Henyard says her father was an "innocent victim" of the broader issue of gun violence in Illinois.

Mar. 26, 2026 at 10:50pm

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Former Dolton Mayor Tiffany Henyard is calling on Illinois leaders, including Gov. JB Pritzker and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, to take action on gun violence after her father was shot in Chicago. Henyard posted a statement on social media saying her father "was an innocent victim of this random and heartbreaking violence" that reflects a larger issue affecting too many people.

Why it matters

Henyard's call for action comes as gun violence continues to be a major concern in Illinois, with Chicago in particular facing high rates of shootings and homicides. As a former elected official, Henyard's voice carries weight in highlighting the need for stronger policies and collaboration to address this public safety crisis.

The details

Community activist Jedidiah Brown, who has previously clashed with Henyard, called for people to show compassion and support Henyard after her father was shot in the neck. Henyard was elected Dolton mayor in 2021 and also served as Thornton Township supervisor, but lost reelection bids for both offices last year.

  • Henyard's father was shot in Chicago on an unspecified date.

The players

Tiffany Henyard

Former mayor of Dolton, Illinois who is calling for action on gun violence after her father was shot.

JB Pritzker

The current governor of Illinois.

Brandon Johnson

The current mayor of Chicago.

Jedidiah Brown

A community activist in Illinois who has previously clashed with Henyard.

Napoleon Harris

The current Thornton Township supervisor, elected after Henyard's term.

Jason House

The current mayor of Dolton, elected after Henyard's term.

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What they’re saying

“The difference between Illinois and those other states is simple, their leadership chose collaboration, and that collaboration produced results.”

— Tiffany Henyard, Former Dolton Mayor

“Whatever divides us, this is a moment for compassion, hoping she finds strength in knowing that people everywhere are praying for her father, her family and for her.”

— Jedidiah Brown, Community Activist

What’s next

Henyard is calling on Gov. Pritzker and Mayor Johnson to reconsider receiving assistance from the Trump administration to better protect Illinois residents from gun violence.

The takeaway

Henyard's personal experience with gun violence has prompted her to speak out and demand stronger action from state and local leaders to address this critical public safety issue impacting communities across Illinois.