DETROIT – The city of Detroit is confronting a rise in gun violence with community action and new strategies.
On Monday, city leaders announced a curfew enforcement strategy aiming to reduce the recent uptick in shootings throughout Detroit.
“We’re dealing with the deaths of children and leaving a lot of potential in the graveyard,” said Paul Jones, a 25-year-old member of Church of the Messiah.
On the Fourth of July weekend, the church held its annual Silence the Violence Walk and rally. That same weekend, 6 young people were shot in the city of Detroit.
Jones has joined up with Lem Cartman, a Chicago native and Henry Ford Health fellow who is part of a new mentorship program which will expose young people to the healthcare field.
On Saturday, July 19, they will be part of a group of young adults who have overcome the difficulties of growing up in a challenging environment.
“We’ve all come from thick backgrounds, troubling backgrounds, tough backgrounds but we’ve all found a way to flip the switch and become innovators, entrepreneurs and developers,” said Jones.
They understand the issue of violence can’t be solved by police alone and hope by sharing their stories and serving as mentors’ young adults can relate to, they can help them see a bigger future for themselves.
If you’re interested in joining them, the discussion will take place Saturday, July 19, at noon the Church of the Messiah which is located on 231 E. Grand Boulevard, Detroit.