Danielle Kilgo is a researcher now based at the University of Minnesota focused on how media contributes to uneven power dynamics and diversity issues, including police brutality and social movements against violence and racism. This is the first of a two-part essay, published with her permission, that combines commentaries she published at The Conversation.

When I look at my five grandchildren, ages 10 to 26, I am determined to continue to do everything in my power to create a world that is free of these horrendous weapons.

Nevertheless she persisted"... your efforts for raising women's voices and lives shake the world