It’s a T.R.A.P. (Trauma Reducing Applied Practices) is a Community centered healing & education event that examines the lasting impact of trauma, particularly as it relates to gun violence & the cycles that often precede it. Designed to foster honest dialogue, accountability, & healing, the event creates space for individuals & communities to better understand trauma’s root causes while exploring practical tools for interruption, prevention, & restoration.

Backstory: First launched in October 2020, It’s a T.R.A.P. debuted with guest speaker Dr. Jess Clemons, setting the foundation for trauma-informed conversations during a time of heightened national violence & collective grief. The second installment took place in May 2022, expanding the conversation through a panel of community leaders, highlighting lived experience, local solutions, & collective responsibility in addressing trauma & gun violence.

Now entering its third installment in May 2026, It’s a T.R.A.P. continues its evolution with special guest speaker Actor Antwon Tanner (Sunset Park, Coach Carter, One Tree Hill & many more), bringing a powerful blend of cultural influence, personal insight, & community engagement to the ongoing work of healing, prevention, & transformation.

Additional Information: Antwon Tanner & I grew up together in Gary, Indiana where we both ran into troubles as young teens that caused us to have to move out of Gary. This was actually a Blessing in disguise as it ultimately led to us finding our paths but sadly not before being impacted by the traumas that oftentimes lead to multiple kinds of violence in the Community, specifically gun violence & how it disproportionately affects young Black men.

Please join us for the conversation & help to find ways to implement Trauma Reducing Applied Practices.

– Ed Genesis