Group calls on Congress to enact stronger gun-control measures

YOUNGSTOWN — Robin Wesson’s 22-year-old brother was shot to death Nov. 9, 2007 in front of his East Side home. Starting shortly after the shooting, she has since channeled her grief in positive ways.

She advocates against gun violence, takes her anti-violence messages to youngsters, and reminds people of the constant pain from such a loss.

Wesson’s brother’s killing also was an impetus for her participation in tonight’s vigil in Central Square to call attention to what participants feel is a need for stronger gun-control measures.

“I never, ever want to see anybody hurt as bad as my family still hurts,” said Wesson, holding a photo album containing several pictures of her brother, Sidney Wesson, who she said also mentored children.

Wesson and fellow participants, John Jackson, Mark Gavin Sr., Roger Chamberlain and George Newth, are volunteers with Organizing for Action, an offshoot of a political-action committee President Barack Obama started.

The one-hour local gathering was one of an estimated 125 such vigils that took place today across the country to raise greater awareness of the effects of gun violence and the need for reforms, Jackson said.

For the complete story, read Saturday's Vindicator and Vindy.com