Voices Against Violence event brings community together for change

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- It’s early in the summer and already, violence has rocked many families in Milwaukee. Saturday, June 29th, the Voices Against Violence Coalition had its kick off as community members came together to make a change.

Dozens of community members, along with elected officials, gathered outside of the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center to help conquer a big mission. Beginning with a prayer for peace, concerned residents took a walk to stomp out violence.

Recent events such as last Sunday’s heartbreaking murder/suicide prompted the Voices Against Violence coalition to help anyone harmed by crime and aid those in need of support.

“The violence that’s going on in the community really needs to stop," said Kavina Wallace.

Wallace knows firsthand the pain domestic violence can bring. She lost her 6-year-old daughter Jakyla King, when the child’s father shot her, then turned the gun on himself.

“It’s hard but I’m holding up,” added Wallace.

As Wallace got a shoulder to lean on, she urged victims to take advantage of the resources available.

“I want people that’s in a domestic violence situation, if you’re going through what I've been though, they need to open up and talk to somebody to get help," said Wallace.

Support ranged from education, pregnancy, abuse and beyond. The event aims to use strength and guidance in helping folks overcome all obstacles.

“Violence can be emotional, verbal and financial abuse that happens in our community so there’s resources here for people to know," said State Senator Lena Taylor. “We’re here as a community to make a difference."

This is just the first of many Voices Against Violence outreach events for the summer.

Kavina Wallace said the community has been such a support for her though her loss, she has decided to open Jakyla’s funeral services to the public. You can pay your respects Tuesday, July 2nd, at the Greater Mount Sinai Church on the corner of 60th and Custard. The wake is 11 a.m. to 1 p. m. and the funeral is from 1 p.m. to 2 p. m.