What was once a weapon of destruction will become a tool for planting, harvesting, and cultivating during the “From Guns to Garden Tools” event. The initiative, scheduled for Saturday, June 28, in Peekskill, will gather the community in a symbolic gesture—but also in a real, physical action. The goal is to show that, in just a few minutes, fire can soften the parts of a rifle or any other firearm and reshape them into a shovel or a hoe. For more than an hour, attendees will witness a transformation so surprising it almost resembles a magic trick.
The event will take place at Peekskill Regeneration Farm, and it is open to the public at no cost and with no prior registration required. The activity is part of a national initiative led by RAWtools, an organization that promotes community disarmament and the peaceful reuse of metal. One of the representatives from RAWtools Buffalo will travel to Peekskill to forge tools in real time from gun components previously surrendered to the local police.
Organizers have emphasized that the event site will not serve as a weapon collection point and that no firearms will be accepted or handled on site.
Additionally, Peekskill Regeneration Farm will host the creation of reflection gardens—spaces for contemplation and dialogue built through community art. Young people from the area will take part in decorating benches and planting green spaces, contributing to a broader effort to reinforce local peace initiatives.
The activity was coordinated by Peekskill residents in collaboration with the city’s police department and received formal approval from the Peekskill Common Council during its June 9 session. The authorization includes the use of public space, event insurance, and coordination with law enforcement during the gathering.
For more information, the organizing team has provided an email. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets and folding chairs to enjoy the activity and the light snacks that will be offered on site, while taking part in a community dialogue in support of peace.
