MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. (WSVN) — Hundreds of people came together across South Florida to call for an end to gun violence, Saturday, as local church communities continue to lean on faith in the hopes of combating the bloodshed.
At Koinonia Worship Center and Village in Pembroke Park, a 5K walk/run brought about 400 people together to take a stand. “We want to let them know it starts with us, the community members, to make the neighborhood better,” said a participant.
Meanwhile, the faith-based group Sons of Allen Men marked the 15th year of their retreat at the Mount Hermon African Methodist Episcopal Church in Miami Gardens. “They create partnerships with our communities so that young black and brown boys see hope in their lives and a way for them to be upright contributors to the community,” said the Rev. Kenny Irby with the Sons of Allen Men.
These rallies come during a grim time in Miami-Dade County. “More than 60 lives have been lost, children and youth, to gun violence,” said Mount Hermon Pastor Michael K. Bouie. “I think coming here this year makes a very powerful statement to the community that we’re not asleep.”
One of those lives lost was 15-year-old Alder Hill, who was gunned down execution style while riding his bike in Liberty City, Jan. 9. Miami-Dade Police said he was likely just in the wrong neighborhood.
Another heartbreaking loss was 6-year-old King Carter, who got caught in crossfire in front of his Northwest Miami-Dade apartment, Feb. 20.
Organizers said Saturday’s march through Miami Gardens shows that change can happen if the community speaks up and there are positive role models for children. “We’re trying to reclaim our right as the men in the home, as the leaders in the community,” said Stanley Lewis with Sons of Allen Men. “It’s very important that we show a presence in this community.”
For more information about Sons of Allen Men, contact the Rev. Michael K. Bouie at 305-621-5067.
Mount Hermon AME Church
17800 N.W. 25th Ave.
Miami, FL 33056
You may also email a Sons of Allen district officer.
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