Durham youth demand action on gun violence crisis

Policymakers listen as victims share personal stories at NCCU symposium

Apr. 18, 2026 at 3:36am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of a spent bullet casing on the ground, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually representing the gritty aftermath of gun violence in Durham.The harsh reality of gun violence in Durham is laid bare in the stark details of physical evidence, demanding urgent action from policymakers.Durham Today

In Durham, North Carolina, the gun violence crisis took center stage at a Youth Leaders Against Gun Violence Symposium held at North Carolina Central University. Victims, including a college student and a 12-year-old, shared harrowing personal stories about how shootings have impacted their lives, with the goal of turning those voices into action from policymakers.

Why it matters

Gun violence has been a persistent issue in Durham, with the city recently rolling out a violence reduction plan. This symposium provided a platform for young people affected by the crisis to directly share their experiences and call on local leaders to take more visible action in their communities.

The details

The symposium, created by the Greater Ascension Community and Economic Development (GRACED) organization, featured four panel discussions focused on workforce development, education, and the mental health impacts of community violence as prevention tools. Speakers included Gemaeka Smith, a college student who was shot in the hip while walking back to a dorm, and Khadija Jabbarkhel, a 12-year-old who witnessed a recent drive-by shooting. Both shared their personal stories and the lasting effects the incidents have had on their lives.

  • In November 2024, Gemaeka Smith was shot in the hip while walking back to a dorm at NCCU.
  • Just weeks ago, Khadija Jabbarkhel witnessed a drive-by shooting while leaving a park in the Cornwallis community.

The players

Gemaeka Smith

A college student at NCCU who was shot in the hip in 2024 and is still dealing with lasting nerve damage.

Khadija Jabbarkhel

A 12-year-old who witnessed a drive-by shooting in her Cornwallis community just weeks ago.

Tiffany Swoope

The founder and executive director of the Greater Ascension Community and Economic Development (GRACED) organization, which partnered with NCCU to host the symposium.

Javiera Caballero

The Durham Mayor Pro Tempore, who acknowledged the importance of incorporating youth voices in the city's violence reduction efforts.

Greater Ascension Community and Economic Development (GRACED)

The youth mentorship organization that created the Youth Leaders Against Gun Violence Symposium.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I don't want no one else to go through what I went through.”

— Gemaeka Smith, College student

“A white car had drove past and started shooting out the window and there was a bunch of kids outside.”

— Khadija Jabbarkhel, 12-year-old

“We are hoping our policymakers, our community leaders, our elected officials will listen to our children and come up with a plan.”

— Tiffany Swoope, Founder and executive director of GRACED

“Making sure we incorporate that youth voice is going to be critical to our success. These are the kids in our schools, in our neighborhoods.”

— Javiera Caballero, Durham Mayor Pro Tempore

“I don't think he understands how serious the situation can get if he doesn't put his foot down in the community.”

— Khadija Jabbarkhel, 12-year-old

What’s next

Organizers say this was the first Youth Leaders Against Gun Violence Symposium, but given the turnout and response, they expect it won't be the last. Durham city leaders also say they've already held three community listening sessions as part of the city's violence reduction plan, and incorporating youth voices will be critical to their success.

The takeaway

This symposium highlights the urgent need to address gun violence in Durham through a collaborative approach that centers the experiences and perspectives of young people directly impacted by the crisis. By elevating these voices, policymakers and community leaders can develop more effective solutions to prevent further tragedies and support those already affected.