Stop the Violence

Whether you have school aged children or not, the reports of violence happening in schools is alarming. Students are bullied, carrying weapons, subject to sexual assault, afraid of ridding the bus across neighborhoods; the list goes on. In light of the fact that each of us feels the daily stresses of our jobs, the economy, and political climate, we could easily resign ourselves to what is happening as someone else’s problem. Or, we could gather together to look for solutions. We could combine our resources to impact our community and support the education of all of the children, who in just a few short years from now, will be responsible for the economic and political health of our community. 

Please join the Erie County Restorative Justice Coalition and Most Valuable Parents of Buffalo to engage in listening sessions to both voice your concerns, and work together toward solutions to the violence that is plaguing our community. Everyone is welcome, students, parents, teachers, school administration, business owners and nonprofits, elected officials and law enforcement: whether you have children or not. Join us to become part of the conversation.

School should be a safe and engaging place for students and staff alike to learn and grow. It is the foundation of all of our lives, where we become empowered to be all that we are meant to be. Let us join together to address the harm that is happening in our midst, and become united in solutions to eliminate violence in our schools.

• Monday, May 5 at 5:30 PM at Renovation Church, 567 Hertel Ave.

• Saturday, May 24 at 10 AM at Frank E. Merriweather Library, 1324 Jefferson

• Monday, June 9 at 5:30 PM at Elaine E Panty Branch Library, 820 Tonawanda St.

• Saturday, June 28 at 10 AM at Main Library Downtown, 1 Lafayette Sq.

Please come to as many sessions as you are able.