Advocacy in Action

Crime Survivors Speak

Bertha Purnell is a tireless advocate, founder of Mothers On A Mission 28, and the Chicago Chapter Coordinator for Crime Survivors for Safety and Justice. Driven by the tragic loss of her son Maurice to gun violence, Bertha has dedicated herself to creating a network of support and services for survivors and their families in Illinois. In this episode, Bertha opens up about the motivation behind starting Mothers On A Mission 28—a grassroots organization designed to bridge the gap where existing services fall short in adequately supporting survivors. Listen to discover how Bertha’s relentless advocacy led to groundbreaking legislative changes in Illinois last year, making victim services more available and accessible than ever before. We also delve into the critical need for more Trauma Recovery Centers and how collective efforts can create a more compassionate and effective system for survivors. Please join us as we explore the vision of a leader who turned personal tragedy into a lifelong mission for justice and healing.