The recent upsurge in homicides in Lansing raises fears that we may be returning to the bad old days of the early 1990s, when homicide rates in the United States reached their peak. While other local groups pursue policy and system solutions, One Love Global President Angela Austin and The New Citizens Press Publisher Rina Risper have organized a new series of community-based events, called Peace & Prosperity, aimed at the prevention of violence, particularly gun violence among youth.
The first session, held at the Level II UltraLounge (formerly Venue) on Thursday, May 6, focused on healing. In this video from the event, families who have lost a loved one to murder talk about the impact that the violence has had on them and on their families.
Facilitator Rina Risper of The New Citizens Press talks about the climate of violence and the urgent need to take action. Then Teresa Stokes of McMathis Counseling talks about the role that counseling can play a role in helping to heal the harm inflicted on individuals and the community.
Hakim Crampton of H.A.P.E. (Helping All People Excel) talks about his work with young people, as well as his experience in serving time in prison for a murder that he did not commit.
Voices from the Community - In this video, Malik and Hakim facilitate questions and comments from the many people who came out that night to try to make a positive difference.
Just the beginning
The next One Love Global event will be at Level II, 6810 South Cedar Avenue in Lansing, June 7, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.. (You can also follow One Love Global on Facebook.) The group has also organized Power of Nine events at Level II to provide safe and positive activities for young people through the summer.
The evening ended with a ceremony where family members impacted by violence received bouquets from the community
