Family, friends of Hadiya Pendleton lead bike ride to honor lives lost to gun violence

CHICAGO - Since 2015, the first Friday in June is known as "National Gun Violence Awareness Day." It started in remembrance of a Chicago girl.

Hadiya Pendleton was shot while playing on a playground in January 2013. Her death came just days after she performed at then-President Barack Obama’s second inauguration.

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On Friday night, Hadiya's family and friends led a community bike ride to honor her and others who have lost their lives to gun violence.

Bikers wore orange t-shirts, which has become synonymous with bringing awareness to gun violence.

"Kids should be able to go to school and be safe. We should be able to grocery shop and be safe," one rider said.

"It’s drugs, it’s money and unfortunately politicians are turning a blind eye," another rider said.

Members of the community group "Southside Critical Mass" peddled from Nichols Park and eventually reached Hadiyah Pendleton Park.

Hadiya’s mother is calling for enforced penalties for criminals.

"Someone has to pay. It’s effecting everyone," said Cleopatra Pendleton.

Also on Friday, outside Stroger hospital, lawmakers discussed tighter regulations for AR-15's and similar style assault rifles.

Then, in Pilsen, Lawrence’s Fish & Shrimp employees wore orange as well. They lost three workers to gun violence last year alone.

"I think I’ve been to more funerals than to birthday parties," the general manager said.

LaDawn Merrell, who's worked at the restaurant 43 years, lost her grandson and brother to gun violence as well.

On Saturday at Hadiyah Pendleton Park, there will be games, food and resources for the community, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.