MPI and CP4P March in Historic 96th Annual Bud Billiken Parade

MPI staff members carry the banner during the 96th annual Bud Billiken Parade in Chicago, IL, on Saturday, August 9, 2025.

Metropolitan Peace Initiatives (MPI) and Communities Partnering 4 Peace (CP4P) gathered on Saturday, August 9, 2025 to march in the historic 96th annual Bud Billiken Parade on the South Side of Chicago.

Marchers carried a banner with a powerful message stating, “Community Violence Intervention (CVI) is Saving Lives in Chicago.”

Representing CVI were numerous organizations, including MPI, UCAN Chicago, and Public Equity.

The parade kicked off at 35th and King Drive. Known as the largest Black parade in the nation, the Bud Billiken Parade is a cornerstone of “Summertime Chi.”

For many Chicagoans, attending the parade is a longtime family tradition.

While gathering on King Drive, CP4P marchers recalled fond memories of getting up early to claim a spot and set up the grill for the day’s festivities.

But on Saturday, CP4P’s presence was a demonstration of unity and relentless commitment to the community, in the fight to reduce gun violence in the city of Chicago.

Jacqueline Gordon, a Victim Advocate from UCAN, expressed pride in marching with CP4P after years of attending the parade in her childhood. “Walking for CP4P, [I’m proud to represent] our unity and our collaboration,” she added.

Andre Lawrence, Field Manager at MPI and another lifelong parade attendee, emphasized the importance of CP4P’s presence. “We’re out here today for MPI, just trying to shed light on and give some recognition to the work we do,” said Lawrence.

Vaughn Bryant, Executive Director of MPI, shared, “We are honored to march with the city in today’s historic parade and represent the tireless outreach workers, victim advocates, case managers, and CVI professionals who are out here every day. We are marching to let Chicago know we’re dedicated to making this the safest major city in the nation. But more than that, we want them to know CP4P is here for them. I couldn’t be more proud of our work and the efforts we’re making to save lives in our community.”

Take a look at the photos from the day.