Mayor Emanuel Joins Anti-Violence March in Austin Neighborhood

Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel on Saturday participated in a march in the Austin neighborhood of Chicago, located on the city's west side. Joined by Ald. Deborah Graham (29th ward) and Chicago Police Department Superintendent Garry McCarthy, the march in Austin was to raise awareness about violence on neighborhood streets and remind residents about the city's efforts to tackle violence.

Austin community leaders and residents also participated in the second annual neighborhood march, known as the Austin Community March Against Violence, this past Saturday along with the mayor.

At the march, Mayor Emanuel commented on the steps the city has taken so far to reduce violence, especially emphasizing the city's curfew laws that will help keep neighborhood children safe. Emanuel said, "Nothing is more important to Chicago's future than the safety of our children, which is why we have moved aggressively to pass a stronger curfew ordinance to help keep kids out of harm's way. Parents and community members have a critical role to play in keeping our children safe, and I am heartened that the Austin community is energized and organized to reduce violence and protect our youth."

ABC 7 News reported that Austin Neighborhood Block Club President Mary Brown also spoke about the importance of community involvement, the role it plays in helping to reduce violence on Austin's streets, and the changes the neighborhood has made so far. Brown said, "In the 11 years that I've been block president, this street has made a turn. That's what many in the Austin neighborhood hope will continue to happen, only if they fight back against the violence."

Ald. Graham also spoke the neighborhood's commitment to ending violence: "The Austin community is mobilizing against violence; we are committed to making our neighborhoods safe places for our children to grow, learn, and play."

The Chicago City Council has taken several major steps to reduce violence all over the city. These steps include the new curfew law that requires children ages 12 to 16 years old to be home by 10 p.m. and states that violators are subject to a $500 fine or community service.

Similarly, the City Council passed an ordinance that addresses the issue of vacant buildings, which often are locations for illegal activities. The new ordinance requires banks and other lenders to claim responsibility to maintaining vacant buildings and properties. The city has also taken other steps to reduce violence, including Mayor Emanuel's announcement that the Chicago Police Department would be deploying 750 more officers to Chicago streets.

Rachel Bogart provides an in-depth look at current environmental issues and local Chicago news stories. As a college student from the Chicago suburbs pursuing two science degrees, she applies her knowledge and passion to both topics to garner further public awareness.