Hundreds attend rally aimed to start anti-violence movement for youth

YOUNGSTOWN

A mix of message and music promoted the “Love and Protect Our Children” movement during an anti-violence rally Wednesday night at New Bethel Baptist Church, 1507 Hillman St.

About 300 people attended the collaborative effort of Community Mobilization Coalition, Harambee Youth Group, Simply United Together, Youngstown State University Center for Diversity, Martin Luther King Planning Committee, Eastern Gateway Community College, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and Youngstown-Warren Black Caucus.

The Rev. Kenneth Simon, pastor of the host church and chairman of the Community Mobilization Coalition, said, “This event is more than a rally, which has a beginning and an end. This is a movement ... a continuous event ... to affect change.”

He emphasized that the community must provide “positive alternatives” for youth and “take a proactive approach” to protect children, a most valuable resource from God. The pastor added there are various organizations, such as Harambee, which highlight children’s creativity and abilities.

“This means all the children, even those involved in crime. They’re not the enemy, but are being used by the enemy,” the Rev. Mr. Simon said.

Ron Miller of Harambee conducted the “libations” segment, which remembered loved ones lost to violence.

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