Some have lost their own children to violence or prison. They've been at the press conferences and sat in countless meetings with bureaucrats. They've faced character assassinations. Yet, regardless of setbacks, they're still putting their lives on the line without fanfare or meaningful support. It's clear we can't go back to the fragmentation and repressive police tactics that have characterized anti-crime efforts.
Peace is a process.
It's a plan. It is a way of life. It's time for politicians, businesses, schools, churches and law enforcement to align with what these street workers and peacemakers have been doing to make peace in the community a reality. Government, business and religious leaders, community activists, law enforcement and social agencies are scrambling to propose plans to curtail the violence. Yet, most of these well-meaning attempts will fail.