Nashville Mother who Lost Son to Gun Violence Discusses Epidemic

In Nashville, Tennessee, a mother who tragically lost her son nearly 12 years ago chose to share her despairing experience with others, in hopes of bringing about change.

Talia Monget’s Story

Talia Monget tragically lost her 17-year-old son, Antwand Covington Jr., to gun violence. The young boy was gunned down while exiting his car at a friend’s birthday party in 2012. Following the tragedy, Monget spoke out publicly, describing the raw pain that she felt following her son’s tragic death.

“That was probably the worst time that I’ve ever had in my life… Just trying to navigate through loss, grief,” Monget expressed. In an effort to transform her grief into action, she not only shared her heart-wrenching story but also created the Antwand Covington Jr. Foundation—a group dedicated to ending the gun violence epidemic and providing victims’ families resources to heal.

Local Advocacy & Discussion

Recently, the city hosted a discussion at a local church on this very issue. Also attending the event was U.S. Democratic Congressional candidate for Tennessee’s 7th District, who provided thoughts on the methods to curb gun violence.

Local advocacy group, Partners in the Struggle, organized the event, which was dedicated to the loving memory of three individuals who tragically lost their lives to firearms. In addition to Monget, numerous other families and victims were present, engaging with policymakers and law enforcement officials to discuss the best paths forward.

Metro Nashville Police Gun Violence Data

According to Metro Nashville Police data, in the past year alone, gun violence killed 89 local residents. Moreover, officers recovered upwards of 2,800 firearms. The alarming statistics were brought up throughout the discussion as numerous attendees emphasized the critical need for action.

The epidemic of gun violence is a large-scale problem gripping the nation. Recently, Tennessee legislators have been debating a bill that allows adequately trained and background checked educators to carry firearms in schools, only if the respective district agrees. Earlier this week, the bill was passed—adding additional layers to the controversial topic of gun control and violence prevention.

Community Call to Action

Monget’s call to action rings clear amid the current discussions on gun violence:

“What helped me navigate through that is pouring my time back into the community, giving everything I have back into this community, and hopefully some of these politicians will hear our cries and hear what we have to say,” she shared.

With emotions running high, the conversation is showing no signs of slowing down. The community is hopeful that event attendees, particularly legislative representatives, will take these discussions to heart and help implement changes that may prevent future tragedies.