We’re so used to opening our inboxes to bad news, especially when it comes to gun violence. But today, we want to share something that should give all of us immense hope.
For years, politicians — including Donald Trump — have used Chicago as a political talking point, attacking the city as a “murder-ridden hellscape” and threatening to send in federal troops and the National Guard.
But here’s the truth: In 2025, Chicago recorded its lowest number of homicides in 60 years.
Since 2021, murders in the city have dropped by nearly 50%. Shootings fell by almost 60%. Overall violent crime in Chicago is sitting near its lowest point in over four decades.
This isn’t a fluke, and it didn’t happen by accident. It happened because communities invested in peace. Instead of militarized streets, local leaders, neighborhood outreach workers, and violence interrupters did the hard, ground-level work of de-escalating conflicts and supporting young people.
When we invest in community care, mental health, and youth opportunity, lives are saved.
We know the work is far from over. We know that every life lost is still a tragedy, and we aren’t taking a victory lap while families are still healing. But this moment gives us something essential: hope. It proves that the future we are building together is already in motion.
Thank you for refusing to settle for fear, and for building a safer future with us.
— Team MFOL
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