MILWAUKEE — Violent crime is an issue that has been plaguing the city of Milwaukee and some city leaders believe it only seems to be getting worse.
Community organizations, city leaders and elected officials came together Thursday for a summit on violence in the city.
The Emergency Gun Violence Summit was hosted by Forward Latino, a national nonprofit, non-partisan service and advocacy organization along with their partners in the 80% Coalition.
The summit featured national and local experts discussing school safety in an era of gun violence, domestic abuse and gun violence and much more. The experts, joined by elected officials and policy makers, shared important information throughout this daylong event.
Ashanti Hamilton, Director of Office of Violence Prevention, said this summit is needed, especially as we approach summer months, when the city usually sees an increase in crime.
“It’s important for us to engage all levels of government, including community members,” said Hamilton. “We have over 100 trained outreach workers that are working in neighborhoods throughout the city, building positive relationships with families.”
Bobby Ayala is a Racine resident and gun shot survivor. He attended the Summit Thursday hoping to gain more resources and learning about how he can help make change.
Ayala spent 27 years behind bars for a crime committed as a teenager. He was released two years ago and says he’s noticed a difference in the city.
“Coming back to the community after two and half years and seeing Milwaukee the way it is with gun violence, it’s scary,” said Ayala.
As someone with personal experience, he knows what consequences and impacts violence in general can have.
“Gun violence does leave a mark, but not only with the individual, but with the community and city itself,” he said.
Milwaukee County District Attorney, John Chisholm, was also in attendance. Chisholm said this summit provides an opportunity to get re-focused on prevention and intervention to ensure a safe and healthy community.
He believes gun violence is often fueled by trauma and social media.
“We’ve been struggling as a community with the gun violence year round,” he said. “It’s important we come together as a community and identify the things that we can do together.”
Ayala said there are many ways to help make change, but believes it starts with the youth. He wants to encourage those who were once in his shoes, to find positive outlets and support.
“Your friends won’t be your friends when you’re locked up in prison,” said Ayala. “Don’t be afraid to reach out. That’s the scariest thing is to reach out for help.”
He said he’ll continue to share his story with the hope that the city and entire state will work to put an end to violence, before it even begins.