Jenine Lewis: A Mother’s Mission for Healing and Change on The Pop-Up!
Jenine Lewis, the founder of Solace, recently appeared on The Pop-Up! to discuss her ongoing mission to combat gun violence and support grieving families. As a community advocate and a gun violence survivor, Jenine has transformed her personal tragedy—the loss of her son, Elijah L. Lewis—into a movement for community healing and activism.
The Power of Mobilization
On The Pop-Up!, Jenine emphasized that a shift in energy occurs when parents and neighbors take action into their own hands. She believed that when a community mobilizes and activates together, it "speaks volumes" and creates a sense of power that is essential for change.
Jenine described the current state of gun violence as a "pandemic" that is claiming an entire generation. Her solution is radical unity: "I'm all for [building] whatever…by whatever means necessary," she said, underscoring her genuine commitment to the cause.
Honors and Legacies
The conversation also touched upon the efforts of other gun violence survivors, including the family of Amarr Murphy-Paine Jr. who have made incredible efforts to engage community and ensure Amarr is not forgotten. Jenine praised these efforts, noting that:
Establishing official proclamations and dedicated days for lost sons is imperative for the healing process.
Gathering with other families who have experienced similar loss reassures them that they are not alone.
Continuing a loved one's legacy and "carrying the light" is a necessary act of resilience.
Remembering Elijah L. Lewis
An activist, organizer, and community pillar, Elijah L. Lewis was tragically killed on April 1, 2023 in Seattle’s Capitol Hill neighborhood. When asked about her son, Jenine described him as a driven, intentional young man whose short life made a significant impact. She wanted the world to remember his laugh, his light, his ambition, and his deep love for his family, friends, and his niece and nephew.
The Organic Growth of Solace
Jenine’s community program Solace began organically following King County’s proclamation of Elijah L. Lewis Day in November 2023. The name "Solace" was chosen because of the "noise" Lewis felt within herself, her family, and the community; the word itself offered a spiritual anchor.
What started as a simple walk in nature has evolved into a comprehensive support system. Solace incorporates:
Nature Therapy: Group walks in nature to ground, de-escalate, and center participants.
Holistic Healing: The program is expanding to include yoga, mindfulness, and art therapy.
Safe Spaces: Solace provides a "safe place" for people to share their stories and receive support during personal milestones.
For those looking to connect with the organization, they can explore the Solace group on Facebook.
Tune in to The Pop-Up! weeknights at 9 p.m. on the Converge Media YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@ConvergeMedia.
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