DETROIT (WXYZ) — Detroit community organizations and activists are stepping up their efforts to combat gun violence as the city marks National Gun Violence Awareness Day and prepares for a weekend of events aimed at curbing a rise in teen takeovers that have turned violent.
Watch Simon Shaykhet's video report:
The Spirit of Detroit was unveiled wearing an orange jersey Friday as the city recognized National Gun Violence Awareness Day. The city's Well-Being ERG group kicked off the day ahead of a resource fair in Spirit Plaza that included "Stop the Bleed" trauma training, CPR training, grief support, gun lock giveaways and more.
On Saturday, the community will gather for the 19th Annual Silence the Violence March hosted by the Church of the Messiah at 231 E. Grand Boulevard in Detroit. The march kicks off at 10 a.m. and organizers say they are expecting around 1,000 community members to attend.
At the Spirit Plaza rally, attendees heard firsthand accounts from those impacted by gun violence.
"I grew up in an environment where violence was common. I saw people getting robbed, hurt or even killed."
Vu Norris and fellow members of the People's Action took their message to a Detroit westside barbershop, where they engaged community members in direct conversations about accountability and the dangers of gun violence.
Norris said the teen takeovers gripping the city are part of a larger national trend — and one that demands a community response.
"What's led to the teen takeovers and particularly the violence? Number one we have to remember this is a national thing. Part of it is that kids are looking for things to do. We teach them accountability. Responsibility. Lot of times they say we can't control those who come? I say no. No. No. There's a level of accountability." Norris said.
Norris also addressed the mindset driving impulsive behavior among young people.
"Lot of times when they act and do things that are impulsive, they're not necessarily thinking about consequences behind that." Norris said.
Also working alongside the group is Dominique Allen, who served nearly 2 decades in prison for violent crime in the same neighborhood along 7 Mile. Allen is now committed to steering youth away from the path he once walked.
"When I share my story with them, I'm letting them know the pitfalls and cycles I had to go through when I was their age." Allen said.
A barbershop worker who witnessed the outreach summed up what is at stake.
"It's a lose lose. Kids get hurt with senseless violence." the worker said.
Detroit Police Assistant Chief Franklin Hayes also spoke at the Spirit Plaza event about the department's approach heading into summer.
"Is enough being done to prevent gun violence? There's always room and the experience continues to prove it. As the Chief says there's an opportunity for more." Hayes said.
Mayor Mary Sheffield and Police Chief Todd Bettison were listed as speakers at the Spirit Plaza rally but neither were in attendance.
The work to end gun violence comes amid a growing concern over teen takeovers in the city. The large group events have led to fights and arrests.
In February, Mayor Sheffield announced the creation of the Office of Neighborhood and Community Safety. The new office will serve as a hub for violence intervention programs, crime prevention efforts and survivor advocacy.
A number of additional events are planned in the coming days bringing together groups working to counter violence. Organizers say that by sharing personal experiences, they can connect with youth and change the future of the city.
————————————————————————
This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.
