Friday, May 22, 2009

Violence in Chicago finds a Another Combatant

Hello Readers...

Last evening I addressed an amazing group of people for a great cause. Alderman/Committeeman Sandi Jackson and 7th Ward Independent Political Organization hosted a benefit to Stop the Violence. The program was held at The Park At Fourteenth on 14th Street, N.W., downtown D.C.

Anwan "Big G" Glover of HBO's The Wire, began the program with a welcome and introduction of Bonita Parker, Chief of Staff for Alderman Sandi Jackson. Following was a blissful and beautiful rendition of Lift Ev'ry Voice and Sing by Jessica Gabrielle Chambliss.

Then, I spoke. My message was rooted in bringing attention to violence and the impact that violence has on victims and survivors. I asked those in attendance to ensure that they reached out to those in need.

Kouri Marshall, A. Scott Bolden, Ronald Moten and Jauhar Abraham all made touching and heartfelt speeches. Peaceoholics, Moten and Abraham acknowledged graduates who were once a part of their program to engage and educate youth.

Alderman Jackson made a riveting speech. She held everyone accountable to being involved in the community and making a difference.

Lastly, Rachel Crouch and Charles Jean-Pierre presented paitings to Alderman Jackson.

The event turned out to be a great event to benefit victims of violence in Chicago.

Let's continue to be vigilant in our efforts to end violence in our communities. It takes us working together and taking responsibility for our community in order to make a difference.

Til next time...

Monday, May 18, 2009

Praises for a Young Activist - Ronnie Mosley (Chicago)

Good day Readers:

I just read a story about a young man who is making a difference in Chicago. He is 17 year Ronnie Mosley who lives in Chicago. Ronnie lost his best friend to gun violence two years ago and has been an advocate against gun violence ever since. I am truly inspired by his fight and applaud his efforts to rally his colleagues in school and in the community to stop accepting violence in his community.

This is what eliminating violence is all about. It is within us to combat this conundrum. We have to support and develop comprehensive strategies and ways to deal with violence instead of relegating it to the authorities. We must work together as a community to bring attention and awareness to the issue. Only then will we be able to own up to our responsibilitiy of protecting our community.

We need more Ronnie Mosleys to speak out and express dismay with our fellow citizens. We will not and cannot accept the violence.

I simply had to say what was on my mind tonight. I felt compelled to make a statement supporting Ronnie and what he is doing in Chicago.

Additionally, I wanted to make everyone aware that I am speaking on Thursday evening at 6:30 p.m. Alderman Sandy Jackson's event in Washington, D.C. The event is at 1301 K Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. Alderman Jackson will be addressing the violence in our community and communities throughout the country.