The Chicago Police Department Hosts Annual ‘Brunch en Blanc’ in Bronzeville for Families Impacted by Violence Losses

CHICAGO (WLS) — For the fourth year, the Chicago Police Department hosted a brunch for families who’ve lost loved ones to violence.

The community once again come together for this year’s “Brunch en Blanc” event.

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Dressed in white and unified by their loss, families gathered in Bronzeville.

Robbie Stevenson was there to remember her son Maurice Stevenson Jr., a CTA worker who was killed during a carjacking in July 2018.

“The smile on his face. He helped everybody,” she said. “So something just woke me up and said do this. Don’t let go. Don’t give up his case is not solved, but who knows one day.”

In it’s fourth year, the gathering is not only a celebration of life, but a lifeline for those struggling with grief and all the emotions that follow. Police officials hope to offer more than just condolences, but also resources and support.

“It does so much to hear from someone again that has an experience and it’s gonna be an additional support to help them get through the journey, so this is just one event,” said Chief Antoinette Ursitti, CPD Detective Division Commander.

Although Catalina Andrade lost her son to gun violence during a robbery back in 2020, this year is the first time she’s felt strong enough to attend the brunch.

“Just by coming here and knowing that the people who are here also lost a loved one a child like me, I think that’s it helps me,” Andrade said.

The families listened to speakers and enjoyed lunch and live music.

Strides For Peace, an organization looking to end gun violence, is a sponsor of the event.

“We just want to a very small part to figure out how we can be supportive in the space not shy away from it and what can we do to make a little bit of a difference and support the people here who are doing the work,” said Maggie Baczkowski with Strides For Peace.

The family of Taylor Walker, who was killed in the River North mass shooting in July, came Saturday as well. Relatives said the brunch helped a little as they struggle with their loss while they continue their plea for justice.

“I’m just asking for some help,” attendee Sharonda Booth said. “If anyone out there know something reach out. Taylor didn’t deserve it. None of those people did.”

The case remains unsolved.

While the brunch brings together the unique community to acknowledge they are not alone in their grief, the hope is that one day the violence that brought them together will end.