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Neighbors hold peace rally after violent summer
Neighbors hold peace rally after violent summer
MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Near the Holy Name of Jesus Parish on South 11th Street, violence has been all too common for far too long, according to Father Henry Galas. That's why a group met at the church Thursday, August 29th for a peace rally -- calling for an end to the violence.
"This is the most dangerous area of the entire city. A young man, I think just 18 years old, a couple blocks behind this church was shot and killed for two cases of beer," Father Galas said.
That was on August 6th, when the 18-year-old was shot and killed while chasing people who stole two cases of beer from a store on 9th and Hayes.
"There`s a lot of criminal activities in this neighborhood. People are afraid even to come to church," Father Galas said.
On Thursday, police, elected officials, community organizers and neighbors joined Father Galas to rally against the violence.
"We understand there have been problems in the past with the relationships with all of these groups. But I think that it`s important that we reconcile and have reconciliation and together address some of the violence that we`re seeing," Milwaukee Police Captain Peter Pierce said.
Thursday's rally began with prayers, followed by brief speeches and a release of balloons representing every person killed in the city this year. The event culminated in a march for peace.
"I believe, not just this a peace rally, I think it`s a good idea, but I believe people should do it every day," James Hart said.
Hart grew up in the area, and participated in Thursday's rally.
"The good people far outweigh the bad people. I`m quite certain the good people know who these bad people are. And by us getting more involved, I`m quite certain we can make more of an impact," Hart said.
"Meetings like this, or anything I presume -- even talking about it should help. But this is the first time and I`ve been here for 25 years," Father Galas said.
On Thursday afternoon, Milwaukee Police Chief Ed Flynn met with House Speaker Robin Vos to discuss different ways to solve the violence problem the city is facing.