Mayors from across the country are in Birmingham this week for a conference addressing violence against African-American men and boys. It’s the third annual gathering for Cities United, a coalition of mayors formed to curb such violence.
Organizers say they’re discussing ideas and policy solutions so city leaders can take them back to their communities. That includes examining topics such as access to jobs and the juvenile justice system, but also trauma in neighborhoods plagued by violence. Philadelphia youth leader Jamira Burley grew up in a violent, drug-infested community. She says she watched all ten of her older brothers go to prison, including one shot and killed in 2005.
“These stories and these issues have to become personal for all of us for all to find solutions and opportunities for young people to be able to thrive and grow in their communities,” says Burley.
Birmingham Mayor William Bell says it’s incumbent on groups such as Cities United to convince people, regardless of political persuasion, that working to stop violence against black boys and men is a worthwhile cause to take part in.