Chicago adults take non-violent stand for teen safety

Fall means a new school year, which can also mean nine more months of dodging punches - or even bullets - for Chicago area teens who walk to school through gang-controlled neighborhoods.

But some adults now are taking a stand for peace by patrolling street corners to create safety zones for students coming and going from school.

The Chicago Sun-Times and Chicago Tribune reported last month a recent shooting has galvanized adults to act. Deonta Wright, 16, was shot and killed last month while waiting for a bus not far from his school, Crane High School. His shooters reportedly mistook him for a rival gang member, according to ABC 7 Chicago news.

As a result, police and neighborhood adults last month began patrolling near the school before and after school hours, hoping to ward off gang members seeking to intimidate or recruit students.

Catholic Connections

"But now thus says the Lord, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your savior." - Isaiah 43:1-3

Reflection Questions

How can Peacebuilders further God's work by creating "safety zones" in and around schools where teens are free from verbal or physical violence?

What tips would you offer to someone looking for non-violent strategies to protect teens from gang violence or verbal assaults?

Join us in our Forum to discuss these questions!