Take violence fight online

Last Sunday’s editorial (“What isn’t working to reduce crime in Chicago — and what could”) outlined a number of ways in which today’s violence interrupters work to stop revenge attacks and killings at their source. Dr. Gary Slutkin’s model of conflict interruption, originally called CeaseFire (now kn”own as Cure Violence), directed that interrupters have personal contact with those at risk of being victims or perpetrators of violence. Now that social media has accelerated the cycles of violence and retaliation, additional changes may be called for.

First, an online outreach program needs to be developed to meet the immediate needs of those who may be plotting revenge. They, too, are suffering grief and loss that, unaddressed, can lead to violence. Community resources might be developed to address these needs online if not in person. (Caring physical contact also can be a powerful response to loss and anger.)

Second, the editorial board’s meeting with the outreach groups provides an important forum for listening. Such meetings could be extended to potential victims or suspected perpetrators to discover what else we need to hear directly that may be contributing to the violence.

Finally, the remnants of gang affiliations are still powerful forces in the communities. It may well be time for a gang summit mediated by interrupters so that there can be a more lasting cease-fire. showing interest in turning a liquor store into a grocery store in Chicago’s Austin community, an idea that could make one positive change in an area that badly needs it.

It could mean jobs for local adults and teenagers and more accessible and healthy food choices for residents as well. The big “ifs”: If they can open a store that is not upscale but affordable for residents, and if they follow through on a commitment including financial and management support. It takes a while to grow a business with a following so it can become self-sustaining and profitable. They have the finances and connections to make this idea a reality.

This project should be closely watched by all, as in today’s world, big-box stores are going the way of steam engines and blacksmiths. Finding a new purpose for these buildings will create sources of new jobs and tax revenue and eliminate blight in neighborhoods everywhere.

So let’s put on our creative hats and figure out how we can turn lemons into lemonade. Best of luck to Wilder Fields. I hope someday to meet it personally in a salad. owners of these plantations to preserve these historical properties. The owners should discuss the reality of slavery in their materials and should not whitewash history. Rather than abolishing weddings, it would be better if the owners of the plantations donated some of their profits to civil rights organizations. Couples planning a wedding should avoid plantations that do not follow those policies.