On June 14, 2024, the Washington Mystics made a powerful statement by unveiling a custom-designed WNBA Mystics “Knotted Gun” sculpture at the sold-out Capital One Arena. This sculpture, inspired by the renowned Non-Violence sculpture at the United Nations, serves as a symbol of peace and a reminder of the importance of gun violence awareness.

The event, which coincided with National Gun Violence Awareness Month, also highlighted the 988 Lifeline, a vital resource providing immediate help to those in crisis. The Non-Violence Project integrated awareness of the 988 Lifeline into its various programs and communications, emphasizing the need for support and intervention in times of need.

As part of the initiative, the Non-Violence Project launched the #ICANENDGUNVIOLENCE online campaign, encouraging individuals to take a stand against gun violence and play an active role in prevention efforts. This call to action resonated with attendees, including the 20,000 fans who gathered to watch the Mystics face off against Caitlin Clark’s Indiana Fever.

The collaboration between the WNBA, Washington Mystics, and organizations like AMER_ICAN, Artist for Action, and the Center for American Progress underscored the collective effort to address gun violence and promote education and empowerment. The game, initially scheduled at the Mystics’ traditional venue, saw overwhelming demand, leading to a swift sell-out and relocation to the larger Capital One Arena.

By leveraging their platform, the Mystics raised awareness about the pressing issue of gun violence, which claims thousands of lives annually and disproportionately affects youth and children. The event emphasized the importance of responsible gun ownership and the need for community-driven solutions to combat this public health crisis.