News

Actions

Sherman Park residents celebrate Fourth of July

It was a celebration of independence from violence
Posted

MILWAUKEE -- A celebration of independence - from violence. 

That was the theme for dozens of residents in Milwaukee's Sherman Park neighborhood, marking July 4th only days after violence garnered most of the attention.

"I think Sherman Park is a beautiful place," resident Afrika Hamilton told TODAY'S TMJ4. "I think the kids make Sherman Park. I think when they come out and have fun in a safe environment that's what it's all about."
 

Hamilton, 16, said last week she watched with horror as crowds of other teenagers swarmed the park on Tuesday and Wednesday evening. Some among the throngs of people torched garbage cans and threw rocks at MCTS buses and MPD squads.

Today, she and her friends helped facilitate the July 4th parade, picnic and host friendly games and competition.
 

"This is the truer scene because this is the community we have," Hamilton added.

Mayor Tom Barrett also took part in the festivities, visiting Sherman Park among many other stops along his July 4th itinerary.