‘More than art’: Richmond chooses winning design in t-shirt contest against gun violence

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Richmond has chosen the winning artist in its t-shirt design contest centered around stopping gun violence in the city.

Fourth and fifth graders at Richmond Public Schools were invited to create a t-shirt design inspired by the phrase, "I choose life, stop gun violence in RVA."

On Thursday, Nov. 20, Mayor Danny Avula got the chance to meet the student behind the winning design.

Jaleal Robinson's design features the words "Choose Life, Stop The Gun Violence," as well as images of a gun, a flower and an angel.

Jaleal Robinson [left] and Mayor Danny Avula [right] wearing Robinson's winning t-shirt design. (Photo: City of Richmond)

Jaleal Robinson [left] signs Mayor Danny Avula's [right] t-shirt, which bears Robinson's winning design. (Photo: City of Richmond)

Mayor Danny Avula wearing Jaleal Robinson's winning t-shirt design, with Robinson's signature at the bottom. (Photo: City of Richmond)

Jaleal Robinson [left] and Mayor Danny Avula [right] with Robinson's winning t-shirt design. (Photo: City of Richmond)

Jaleal Robinson [center bottom] with city and school leaders, many of which are wearing his winning t-shirt design. (Photo: City of Richmond)

“The gun means hurt, pain and negative," Robinson explained. "The flower gives love and happiness, and the angel gives hope, peace in society. My message to the world is we don’t have to kill each other — we should come together and make peace.”

City leaders emphasized just how proud they were of Robinson and his design. Per the city, he has been connected with visual artist Jamel Walker, who can help support and mentor Robinson as he continues to create.

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“To our outstanding contest winner, Jaleal Robinson, your design is more than art," Avula said. "It’s a symbol of resilience, courage and vision. You’ve used your talent to remind us that Richmond’s strength comes from its people and from our shared commitment to protecting one another."

This contest was made possible by Richmond's Department of Justice Services' Office of Neighborhood Safety & Engagement, in partnership with Richmond Public Schools.