Shaundelle Brooks, propelled by tragedy and fueled by advocacy, announced her candidacy for a Tennessee state legislative seat. The former parole officer, residing near Nashville, seeks to champion gun control measures following the devastating loss of her son, Akilah Dasilva, in a 2018 mass shooting at a local Waffle House.

Standing resolute near the state capitol, Brooks addressed supporters, vowing to represent parents who’ve lost children to gun violence. Her platform emphasizes safety in schools, stores, theaters, parks, and eateries.

Brooks draws inspiration from Lucy McBath, a prominent gun control advocate in neighboring Georgia. McBath, whose son Jordan Davis was a victim of gun violence, successfully transitioned from flight attendant to U.S. Congresswoman.

Brooks, previously uninvolved in politics, found motivation after witnessing legislative inaction following a tragic school shooting in Nashville. The expulsion of two Black Democratic representatives, Justin Pearson and Justin Jones, for advocating gun control further fueled her resolve.

Joined by fellow activists and politicians at her announcement, including U.S. Senate candidate Gloria Johnson and Justin Jones, Brooks aims to challenge the Republican supermajority in Tennessee’s legislature. However, analysts foresee an uphill battle for Democrats in the upcoming elections.

Tennessee Republicans, staunch defenders of Second Amendment rights, oppose measures like red flag laws supported by Brooks. These laws aim to prevent individuals deemed dangerous from accessing firearms.

Brooks seeks to fill a legislative seat soon to be vacated by a retiring Democrat. While her path to victory may face obstacles, her dedication to gun control advocacy remains unwavering, propelled by personal tragedy and a commitment to effecting change.