BALTIMORE (AP) - During Baltimore’s first CeaseFire weekend of 2021, participants highlighted the people and places that make Baltimore more than its crime rate.
The city has recorded 30 murders in the first five weeks of the year. Supporters of the CeaseFire event hope to bring an end to violence.
Because of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, organizers tweaked the traditional format by kicking off Saturday with a virtual “Speak Joy Over Baltimore” event. A second virtual event took place later, when participants created drawings and art to express their appreciation for the city.
The Baltimore Sun reports that Baltimore CeaseFire 365 co-founder Erricka Bridgeford and group members Ellen Gee and Darnyle Wharton later led a group of walkers in the the Walbrook neighborhood of West Baltimore. There they met with leaders and members of community groups, including Baltimore Safe Streets.
Mayor Brandon Scott made it clear he expects all the people of Baltimore to step up if the violence is going to end. He particularly challenged men to get out of the house and join the movement.
“If you are watching this on Facebook, wonder to yourself why you’re not here. Wonder why you are posting. Don’t post, walk. Don’t talk, walk,” Scott said. ” Get out in the street .. with all of us who are fighting. …We have to save this city together.”
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