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Voices Against Violence Coalition holds march for peace after violent weekend

Four died over the Memorial Day weekend
Posted at 10:15 PM, May 31, 2017
and last updated 2017-05-31 23:15:27-04

On the heels of a violent weekend in Milwaukee, some people are trying to do their part to put an end to all of it, and members of the Voices Against Violence Coalition marched for peace on the city’s north side Wednesday.

The march comes days after one of the bloodiest Memorial Day weekends in recent years, in which four people died from gun violence.

"Nineteen people got shot over the Memorial Day weekend, that was the kicker right there," said Tracey Dent with Voices.

"This past weekend it was just ridiculous to be living in Milwaukee," said Deacon Marvin Taylor, also of Voices.

A group met at 35th Street and Hampton Avenue, where one of the victims lost her life.

"We refuse to let this year this summer be like how it was the past few summers and we're trying to turn this into a movement," Dent said.

Rev. Kevin Stewart believes prayer is part of the healing process, so he’s taking to the streets.

"I think by being outside and listening to the people and asking them how we can help and being out there and bring those voices of hope," he said.

Several neighbors came outside to join in.

"I'm just surprised at how much participation we're getting from people on the streets and driving by and coming out of their houses and walking with us alongside us," said Mz Joni Love.

Some marchers are focusing on making connections with young people.

"I think it's important to try to reach the youth at this point because there's a lot of things happening with our youngsters and I think it can start with them because they're our future," Love said.

Others are asking the community to look close to home.

"We all got family members and they got criminal records and they're living a criminal life.  We need to talk to them," Taylor said.