Lexington has been hit hard by gun violence. In the first 90 days of 2023, there were more than 40 injuries and 4 deaths from gun violence in our city.

Nearby gun violence in Louisville and Nashville have directly and indirectly impacted those who live in Lexington.

Our friends and neighbors are coping with repeated grief of lost friends and family. They are experiencing the trauma of living on streets where witnessing gun violence has sadly become routine.

UnityFest is an opportunity for individuals, organizations, and businesses in our community to stand together in solidarity against gun violence.

On May 12, 2023, the community is invited to the Lyric Theatre and Cultural Arts Center for UnityFest 2023–an evening of performances showcasing local performers of all ages.

Local recording artist Ka$h Lovee is the heart and mind behind UnityFest.

UnityFest 2023 is an opportunity for friends and neighbors to come together in a safe and encouraging space to focus on the talent and good things going on in the community. This perspective offers hope and alternative pathways away from gun violence.

UnityFest 2023 is presented in part through funding from ONE Lexington in collaboration with Community Action Council.

The inaugural UnityFest was held in July 2022. Proceeds benefited gun violence advocacy organizations Project Body Bag, Stop the Bleed, and E1st Sean Howard Foundation (in honor of Anita Rowe Franklin) as well as organizers The Voyage Movement/H.E.A.R.T.S. and Lexington’s community radio station, RADIOLEX.

In 2023, proceeds will directly support youth impacted by gun violence through a poster design competition and poetry contest. High school seniors and those enrolled in GED programs will be invited to submit poster designs and/or poetry based on themes of unity, healing, and ending gun violence. First, second, and third-place winners will receive cash scholarships.

A portion of the proceeds will also help RADIOLEX continue to provide multiple media platforms that elevate and amplify underrepresented voices in our community. If you’d like to learn more, please visit radiolex.us

Ka$h invites you to witness and celebrate our community’s tremendous talent and promise that outshines the darkest shadows of gun violence. Please support UnityFest today.