Summer of Peace parade-goers preach non-violence

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- In an effort to stem street violence, several hundred people gathered in Washington Park for the 'Summer of Peace' all-city parade on Friday, July 26th. To spread their message of peace with others, the parade-goers marched, sung and held signs.

Though the day's rainy weather forced the rally inside the Sherman Park Boys and Girls Club, the event's co-founder, Tanya Byrd, said it didn't dampen their spirits.

"The meaning of the day is: It is our young people who will have to help us with the solutions to end this senseless violence," Byrd said.

The march against violence is part of the Summer of Peace 365 Arts Program, which provides teens with a year-round program that features work promoting non-violence, civic responsibility and racial justice. It was combined with the Milwaukee Public Theater's All-City People's Parade.

"So, it's become a larger, community event," Byrd explained.

Parade-goers discussed their concerns with FOX6 News.

"I just want peace, like, in all honesty, I don't wanna feel scared to be in the neighborhood," said Justina Gomez. "I don't want my children to ever feel scared to be in the neighborhood, and this is what we're doing, today, to promote peace within the community."

In an attempt to stem the violence, some young adults, such as Erick Perkins, are working with children, hoping to set an example.

"Around the community, you see teddy bears on trees, and 'Rest In Peace' signs on shirts and stuff--so that's all they see," Perkins said. "So, we need somebody that can be a positive influence for them."