The Clergy and Lay Institute for Violence Prevention May 28, 2009
Posted By ABLA Staff
Comments (1) · Jun 1, 2009 - 11:41 am
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May 28, 2009
The Clergy and Lay Institute for Violence Prevention on May 28, 2009 proved to be both inspiring and informative to all of the students of the program. It was the second of three programs focusing on the integration of church into community intervention and participation in countering gang violence. The institute generously provided a Mexican dinner for all in attendance.
The program began with a praise and worship service in both English and Spanish that brought everyone to their feet. The Speaker commented that, “life is not what you expect, but life is what you inspect,” and further added “life is 10% what you bring to it and dealing with 90% of what it brings to you,” further encouraging the audience.
Alexia Salvatierra the Executive Director of Clergy and Laity United for Economic Justice succeeded the worship service speaking about how unfortunately Los Angeles is not a united community, and how we must all work together to find unity. Alexia concluded her speech with asking attendees to discuss what their goals are, what some community goals are, and what kind of road blocks they face. She concluded with calling for a moment of silence for everyone to commit to turning these goals into realities.
Javier Stauring, the Director of Faith Communities for Families and Children, delivered his speech next. He focused on the trust that must be developed between individuals, families, and communities. He recognized that positive and trusting environments are crucial to stopping gang violence. Bill Martinez, the Coalition Director of the Violence Prevention Coalition, followed Stauring, and centered his speech around the necessity of building and developing a common language in order to be more effective in communication and advocacy.
A Better LA’s own Executive Director, Brian Center, was in the last group of speakers. He spoke to the group beholding the theme that children are inherently good, and some who may have taken a wrong step are in need of help from the community. He also acknowledged the power Los Angeles’ Churches hold. He shared the enormous amount of funding that could be raised, for gang intervention, if each church took an initiative to fundraise. As a community, it is imperative that we do not lose hope and do not lose sight of the goal, of ultimately helping individuals in need, and creating an overall better and safe community environment.
The program was a huge success as participants were willing to extend the program which was running overtime. They were all invested and eager to learn how they may be able to make a positive difference and help the community of Los Angeles.
TEACHING THE VALUES OF PEACE
By: Mike (Ali) Raccoon Eyes Kinney
As a Cherokee Native American Activist and a former member of the Richmond California Violence Prevention Movement, I have seen close to 515 homicides in the City of Richmond from 2001 to the present.
The declaration of a 'war on violence' by the Richmond city government was not the panacea, instead it failed miserably.
I have often stated in town hall meetings and on television, the best way to win the 'war on violence' in Richmond is to 'TEACH THE VALUES OF PEACE'.
In the killing fields of Richmond, most of the victims of homicides are youth or young adults. Teaching the values of peace begins with our youth and young adults. From a Native perspective, winning the war on violence begins in the home with a strong, spiritual belief and value system.
We believe that Creator made all generations, past, present and those of the future, holy people. This is what our Elders teach us from the time we are born.
Our families and Elders teach our young people that they must tear away the images and stereotypes that mainstream society has placed upon them as Native peoples.
Violence and killing is not traditional in Native culture, it is a learned behavior from mainstream society.
We teach our youths not to attack, punish or beat themselves up for crimes that they have never committed in regards to racism. Our Elders and families teach our young people to have good self-esteem, self-worth and self-value, for as the original holy people this was Creators plan.
Native people know that it is both family and community responsibility to teach the values of peace to our young people.
We teach our young people honesty and accountability concerning violence. It begins with accepting responsibility for self and acknowledging any past use of violence.
Admitting any wrongdoing, communicating openly and truthfully to renounce the use of violence in the future places our youth on the right path. We place a heavy emphasis that all life is sacred.
The final lesson in teaching the values of peace is quite simple. It is helping young people understand their relationship to others and all things in Creation.
Be responsible for your role, act with compassion and respect, and remember ALL LIFE IS SACRED. Native culture is prevention!
Mike (Ali) Raccoon Eyes Kinney