Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
The Fall Drive is on! See the new gear and become a member.

'Peace Walk' aimed at ending Milwaukee violence

Hundreds of young people hit the streets last week with a single mission -- ending violence in Milwaukee.

Organized by nonprofits  Serve2Unite and  Safe & Sound, and working alongside students from  Westside Academy II, the march was a public demonstration of the youths' frustration with the status quo and their vision for the future.

"It's about coming outdoors, inviting the community in, and celebrating peace in the community," said Safe & Sound organizer Elena Burke.

After the march, participants had the chance to mingle with their neighbors at a block party.  Youth performers took the stage, performing spoken word and original music.  

Then, participants were invited to remember those lost to violent crime in a ceremony.

But the tone of the day wasn't exactly somber.  Instead, it was about mobilizing young people to affect change in their communities.

"We have to make sure that we're including young people in the discussion , because they're smart.  They know what's going on" Burke said.

To hear excerpts from the march, plus an interview with one boy who was personally affected by Milwaukee gun violence, click the player above.

Director of Digital Content | Radio Milwaukee