Watch CBS News

Anti-Violence Groups Gather To End Violence In African American Community

by Cherri Gregg

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Anti-violence groups from all over the country are gathering in Philadelphia on Friday to come up with strategies to help curb violence in the African American community.

"49% of all homicides in America are Black folk; we are only 13% of the population," said Bilal Qayyum, founder of the Father's Day Rally Committee.

He's also the chair of the Black Violence Conference. He's invited anti-violence groups from all over the country to come together to identify best practices.

"We're hoping that the model that works in Chicago can work in Philadelphia or Baltimore," said Qayyum.

Violence directly costs America more than $8 billion in lost injuries, deaths, and court costs; billions more are lost indirectly.

Qayyum wants to build a national network and believes this conference on intervention, gangs, youth, economic development and criminal justice is the first step.

"There are folks who are out there who are beginning to have an impact in the neighborhoods they work in."

Black Violence Conference leaders will issue a report with recommendations next month.

For more info, go to fdrc.net.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.