Wearorange

Wear Orange is a gun violence awareness and prevention organization, not a traditional shooting range. Based in Kentucky, Wear Orange is dedicated to honoring the lives of people affected by gun violence and elevating the voices of advocates demanding an end to this public health crisis.

Wear Orange originated on June 2, 2015—what would have been Hadiya Pendleton's 18th birthday. Hadiya was shot and killed on a Chicago playground in 2013, just one week after marching in President Obama's second inaugural parade. Her friends commemorated her life by wearing orange, the color hunters wear in the woods to protect themselves and others.

Today, Wear Orange honors Hadiya and the nearly 130 people shot and killed every day in the United States, along with the hundreds more wounded and countless others whose lives have been changed by gun violence. The organization is committed to:

• •Educational initiatives promoting responsible gun ownership
• •Policy advocacy supporting gun safety measures
• •Community engagement through awareness campaigns
• •Supporting survivors and honoring victims of gun violence

Wear Orange Weekend takes place annually around National Gun Violence Awareness Day, which occurs on the first Friday in June. The next event is scheduled for June 5–7, 2026. During this weekend, volunteers, survivors, community partners, and advocates nationwide participate through events ranging from community beautification projects and food drives to community gatherings and educational forums.

Anyone can participate in Wear Orange by wearing orange clothing or accessories on National Gun Violence Awareness Day and throughout Wear Orange Weekend. The organization encourages supporters to join advocacy efforts, attend local events, and support policy changes aimed at preventing gun violence.

The color orange has deep roots in the gun violence prevention movement, representing both safety (the color hunters wear) and peace. From Hadiya's loved ones in Chicago to hunters in Montana and activists nationwide, orange symbolizes solidarity with those affected by gun violence.