Jawanna Hardy is a remarkable individual whose life’s journey has been defined by her unwavering commitment to creating positive change in her community. As the visionary founder of Guns Down Friday, she has become a beacon of hope and a catalyst for transformation in the heart of Washington, D.C & Prince George’s County. 

Jawanna’s path to activism was shaped by her strong Christian faith and the powerful examples set by her activist mother and uncle. Her dedication to making a difference took her on a unique journey that encompassed both military service and humanitarian efforts.

Having served in the U.S. Air Force for six years, including a significant deployment in mortuary services in Qatar, Jawanna’s experiences provided her with a profound understanding of both the human cost of violence and the importance of community support in times of crisis. Her involvement in the launch of FEMA’s search and recovery unit further underscored her commitment to aiding and assisting during times of dire need.

Upon returning home, Jawanna was confronted by a harsh reality: the streets of her beloved community were rife with violence, resembling a warzone in their own right. Witnessing the trauma experienced by communities without proper therapy or support, she was compelled to take action. In 2018, she co-founded Guns Down Friday alongside her daughter, Dnayjah Joseph. 

At the forefront of her efforts is the mobile trauma unit, a powerful tool through which Jawanna organizes vigils, community gatherings, and provides essential resources to children and families grappling with the aftermath of violence. Jawanna’s remarkable efforts have garnered significant recognition. The Greater Washington Community Foundation named her one of the ten Black Voices for Black Justice DMV Fellows, while the National Coalition of Black Civic Participation and Washington’s Business Journal honored her as a Top 40 under 40 recipient. Her mission to foster healing and community cohesion through Guns Down Friday has attracted widespread attention from media outlets across the world like ABC News, Reuters, WUSA-9 News, and Fox 5. Jawanna Hardy’s unwavering dedication as an advocate for change showcases the transformative power of compassion and activism.