FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 1, 2026
National Medical Association Launches Multi‑City Public Health Initiative: 5K Walks for Peace to Promote Safety, Healing, and Community Connection
Gary, Indiana Walk set for September 12
(Gary, IND) — Every community deserves to feel safe. Safe for children to grow. Safe for families to gather. Safe for neighbors to look out for one another. That belief is driving a major national public health initiative led by the National Medical Association (NMA) and its Violence Prevention Council, chaired by Dr. Michael McGee, in partnership with local NMA Societies across the country.
This September, at least nine cities will host or partner in 5K Walks for Peace, unified under a shared mission: to strengthen communities, promote public health, and reduce violence through collective action. National partners include Cities United, the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE), and the Sandy Hook Promise SAVE Program, each bringing critical expertise and youth engagement to the effort.
In Gary, Indiana, the Walk for Peace will take place Saturday, September 12, 2026, at Marquette Park, 1 N. Grand Blvd. The event opens at 8:30 a.m., with the walk beginning at 9:00 a.m. Registration is free, and the event is supported by Methodist Hospital, U of C Crown Point, and the City of Gary. Activation zones, wellness activities, and community engagement stations will be featured throughout the event.
“The Walks for Peace represent exactly what public health is about—bringing communities together to create conditions where people can live, grow, and thrive,” said Dr. McGee. “I’m incredibly excited to see our NMA chapters, national partners, and local cities unite around this effort. When we walk side by side, we’re not just raising awareness about violence prevention—we’re demonstrating the power of collective action, healing, and hope. This initiative shows what’s possible when medical professionals, community leaders, youth, and families all choose to stand for peace.”
Event Details
5K Walk for Peace
Saturday, September 12, 2026
Marquette Park – 1 N. Grand Blvd, Gary, IN 46403
Event Opens: 8:30 a.m. | Walk Begins: 9:00 a.m.
Registration: FREE
Register at: https://givebutter.com/pop5k
Participants are encouraged to bring family, invite friends, gather coworkers, or start a team.
“Every step sends a message that we all have a role in creating communities where people feel safe, connected, and supported,” added McGee.
