City of Roanoke committee continues work to address gun and gang violence
The city of Roanoke is working to address gun and gang violence in the streets. The city formed a committee last year to meet monthly to tackle the issue.
The committee of community leaders met Friday to brainstorm solutions. The group has five overarching areas they want to focus on. The committee looked at other cities' plans to figure out what would work best here. The city will focus on improving community engagement, education or opportunities, positive mentorship, and addressing suppression.
During the meeting, community members shared direct experiences of being in the streets. People shared their stories, and conversations with people to explain some of the realities kids may currently be facing involved with gangs.
“Give them a place to go right now. During this pandemic ages 12-14 don’t have anywhere to go. This is the time that is vital. This is the time they try to have a mindset of their own" said Jermaine Johnson.
Johnson hopes the city will consider bringing back programs that helped him. He said that would include no cost for sports, more mentorship programs, and a place for kids to go outside the home.
The group will continue to meet monthly as they work out the details of the plan.
