PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) -- A Philadelphia city councilman kicked Gun Violence Awareness Month on Friday with a rally featuring prayers from clergy of many different religions. 

Councilman Kenyatta Johnson got involved in gun violence prevention when he was 17 years old, after his cousin was shot to death. Twenty years later, homicide is still the leading killer of Philadelphians between ages 15 and 24, specifically, he says, homicide by gun.

"That's why this is such an urgent issue that we must address," Johnson said. "That's why we're in a crisis and we need everyone to step up and get involved in reducing gun violence in the city of Philadelphia."

The cause has new allies, this year, as gun control has gained national momentum in the wake of several horrific school massacres. Johnson welcomes the help.

"It's all one movement," the councilman said. "We'll continue advocating for the lives of all young people, responsible gun legislation that has an impact whether you live in the suburbs or in the city, because at the end of the day, all lives matter."