Mayor Brandon Johnson Joins Youth Wellness Discussion at Project Swish’s 29 Hours of Peace Community Lock-in

CHICAGO - Today, Mayor Brandon Johnson joined Project sWISH Chicago (PSC) to kick off the 29 Hours of Peace 'community lock-in,' sitting down with youth and mental health experts to help guide the 'Brotherhood Circle,' a discussion encouraging young men to share their experiences with community leaders and professional councilors. During the event at Kennedy-King College, over 150 young men aged 14-21 will have the opportunity to take part in healing activities, community-centered discussions, and organized basketball.

"Our young people must be part of the conversation as we build upon the efforts that are driving down violence in our communities," said Mayor Brandon Johnson. "By showing up today and engaging in this conversation they are providing invaluable feedback and insight while contributing to our collective work to build a safer city. I want to thank Project sWish for bringing us together and for all they do to build up our communities and combat gun violence in Chicago."

Mayor Johnson joined Deputy Mayor of Community Safety for the Brotherhood Circle discussion which was moderated by mental health advocate by mental health advocate Rwenshaun Miller, with panelists Dr. Roshaun Bowensand Corderius Cowans, both educational leaders and licensed counselors.

During the conversation, which was designed to foster honest dialogue, accountability, and leadership among young men, Mayor Johnson and Deputy Mayor Gatewood reaffirmed the City's commitment to expanding anti-violence programs, mental health support, and partnership with community organizations like Project sWish.

"This 29 hour 'community lock-in' is more than an event, it's a movement," said Deputy Mayor of Community Safety Garien Gatewood. "By creating space for community, honest dialogue, healing, and positive competition this event affirms that our youth are heard, valued and supported. When we give our young people opportunities to share their experiences and connect with like-minded individuals, we strengthen not only their futures, but the future of entire communities."

The fourth annual Hours of Peace community lock-in seeks to reduce violence, promote healing, and strengthen neighborhoods by bringing youth together through sports, creative activities, and mental wellness programing. The event is designed to engage young men in open dialogue about mental wellness, violence prevention, and community building.

"29 Hours of Peace is how I choose to celebrate my 29th birthday," said McKinley Nelson, Founder of Project sWish Chicago. "It amplifies the message that peace is possible when communities come together."

Nelson, a lifelong Chicagoan, founded Project sWish in 2018 after losing of multiple of his close friends to gun violence. Since its inception, Project sWish has brought together over 7,000 young people through free weekly basketball leagues, community events, life readiness initiatives, and health equity programs including yoga, meditation, art therapy.

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