Oklahoma City’s fourth annual Boxing in the Barrio event is drawing local youth, families, and faith leaders together to replace guns with gloves. Organized by community volunteers, the free‑entry program aims to steer teenagers away from street violence and give them a constructive outlet for energy and ambition.
Community leaders rally behind the cause
“It’s an epidemic that needs to be curbed,” said Pastor Martin Cantu, who has been vocal about the recent spate of gun threats on school campuses across the state. Pastor Cantu warned that a single bullet can devastate an entire family, underscoring why the event’s timing feels especially urgent.
Co‑founder of the organizing group Vintage Carnalas, Yadira Montoya, described the effort as a collective undertaking. “It takes an army to create something like this,” she said, noting that volunteers, local businesses, and churches have pooled resources to make the event possible.
Boxing as a positive alternative
Boxing in the Barrio provides a structured environment where participants learn discipline, respect, and physical fitness. “We create events to bring the youth together, to try to get them off the streets,” Montoya explained. “We’re advocates for the community to stay away from violence.”
One of the boxers, Adan Pillado, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity. “Supporting a good cause. Out here for the community. And really, you know, I’m here to work and get some work and work on my craft,” he said, adding that the training helps him stay focused when life feels challenging.
Impact on participants
Organizers say the event not only teaches boxing technique but also imparts life lessons about perseverance. “When you’re down and you feel like quitting, that’s when you’ve got to push the hardest,” Pillado shared, highlighting the mental resilience the sport can foster.
Pastor Cantu emphasized that the lessons learned in the ring can translate to safer neighborhoods. “Because all it takes is one bullet, and that bullet can change the life of not only the person who passes away, but their entire family,” he warned, reinforcing the community’s commitment to prevention.
Looking ahead
With the success of the past three years, organizers hope to expand the program’s reach, inviting more schools and churches to partner for future events. The goal remains clear: give Oklahoma City’s youth a positive path forward, rooted in community support, faith, and the discipline of sport.
Original reporting: Oklahoma City News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
