Philadelphia – January 31, 2019 – Yesterday, State Senator Art Haywood (D-Montgomery/Philadelphia) joined State Representative Isabella Fitzgerald, Councilwoman Cherelle Parker, and community partners from the Philadelphia Police Department, Good Shepherd Mediation Program, Victim No More, Philadelphia Ceasefire, and EMIR Healing Center for a town hall on community violence. Last year, Philadelphia had 351 homicides. This meeting was to discuss strategies the community can implement to reduce violence.

“We can reduce gun violence through mentoring youth, conflict resolution training, and prosecution of those with illegal guns.” said Sen. Haywood.

“Though the level of violence seems prevalent throughout our community, throughout the city and even throughout the country neighbors uniting together continues to be a driving force in combatting violent behavior,” State Rep. Fitzgerald said. “Where neighbors are united, there is no greater crime stopper.”

Senator Art Haywood“The violence plaguing our city is completely unacceptable. We, as citizens, must do our part to preserve safety in our neighborhoods by engaging our neighbors, creating more positive community-based programming, and collaborating with local law enforcement,” said Councilwoman Cherelle L. Parker. “Additionally, we must not be afraid to report any suspicious or criminal activity.”

“We must decrease the number of shootings that happen in our neighborhoods,” said Sen. Haywood. “We have to create solutions that work, so we can have safer streets for all. We will support the efforts Mayor Kenney is taking to decrease crime.”

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