Graduating seniors from Percy Julian High School led the way across 103rd Street to greet eighth graders from Marcus Garvey School.
This was the 10th year for this event; the group's goal is to encourage kids and teens to be a collective force to create peace in Chicago.
"You are the leaders of today. You are the changemakers," Graduates Over Guns CEO and founder Umi Brooks said.
Brooks started her effort in 2015.
She says the event was inspired by the murder of several Chicago teens, including her childhood friend, Blair Holt. The Julian High School student was shot and killed on May 10, 2007.
The anniversary of his death is an inspiration to some to strive for excellence.
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"Staying non-violent, it's hard. Because it's people in this world: They can make you furious. But you have to stay calm," Marcus Garvey School salutatorian Jimmie Sandifer said.
"I feel like I achieve something great and I have to set an example for my other classmates," Marcus Garvey School valedictorian Christopher Dyer said.
After returning to the school for a celebratory program, the day concluded with some advice from the high school seniors to their younger counterparts.
"Just ask questions. As many questions that you can because if you don't know something, it's better that you ask. Because closed mouths don't get fed," Percy Julian High School salutatorian Kenni Carr said.
"I really appreciate being a part of this moment with Graduate Over Guns to advocate like to march to get kids off the streets," Percy Julian High School valedictorian Trinity Hunt-Sawyer said.
The baton was passed to the students poised to take up the mantle of leadership.
Organizers say they hope students will leave with the idea that they do have power in their neighborhoods and they do play a role in keeping the peace in Chicago.