"This is where I am from:" Dozens unite to reveal plan to improve crime-ridden 53206 zip code

MILWAUKEE -- The 53206 zip code in Milwaukee has been called dysfunctional, troubled and crime-ridden. It has a reputation some are trying to change.

"With the shooting and killing, and the stealing of the cars -- it`s bad," Allyah Flourni said.

"At least every day there is a killing on the news, or a car accident, someone fighting," Aleyia Williams said.

The 53206 zip code includes N. 27th Street to the west, I-43 to the east, Capitol Drive to the north and North Avenue to the south.

It has a reputation as the poorest, most crime-ridden and troubled neighborhood in the entire state of Wisconsin.

For Flourni and Williams, it's home.

"This is where I am from," Williams said.

On Wednesday, June 22nd, dozens who live both inside and outside this zip code gathered for a "March for Equity and Justice."

"There is a lot of good people here," Williams said.

"I see hope. And I see potential," Dakota Hall said. "I don`t think statistics define the zip code, but express urgency on what needs to be done -- and action needs to happen now."

Those who took part in the march also unveiled a plan to help end poverty, joblessness and mass incarceration in Milwaukee. They're asking for expanded ACT prep courses, a ban on solitary confinement for young people and the closing of the troubled Lincoln Hills School in Irma.

"I believe I can still live over here, and just help make 53206 better," Williams said.