Religious community stands up against Wilmington violence[VIDEO]

Dried blood on the sidewalk in Wilmington’s West Center City section is the latest reminder of violence that claimed the life of a 24-year-old mother.

 “I see my niece’s blood on the ground. I have been telling the Wilmington Police Department that that area of 6th street; there have been over nine shootings, three murders, right in that block,” Patricia Brown-Robbins said.

Robbins niece, Artise Brown was shot and killed on Tuesday in the 600 block of W. 6th Street.  A 19-year-old woman was also shot but survived. Both women were not targeted but struck by stray bullets. The recent shooting has prompted local church leaders to host Thursday’s anti-violence rally.  The event included groups like Churches Take A Corner (CTAC), Reed’s Refuge Center, Prayer Chain Foundation, Interdenominational Minister’s Action Council of Delaware (IMAC), as well as other spiritual members.

“I’m not against the police, they are doing the best that they can. But when you are dealing with a community that has no completeness and do not feel like they are worth anything, then they act the way they feel,” said Pastor Christopher T. Curry of IMAC.

He said the situation all boils down to whether people have a job or money, adding that the violence in the city will continue. “What do you expect desperate people to do?”

While some folks at the rally expressed disappointment in city leadership and police, Pastor Curry shared a different point of view.

“I’m not going to sit back and keep fighting the police department. Fight the people who can provide stimulus to change our environment,” Curry expressed.

Meanwhile on May 8th, Robbins plans to host another anti-violence rally in honor of her niece and all those who lost their lives to similar crimes. The goal is to keep community members encouraged in the fight against gun violence.

“I call forth every leader in these communities and every council member. You guys are getting elected, we want you out here.  Put your boots on and lets go!” Robbins said.