Durham Leaders Launch Comprehensive Violence Reduction Plan

Durham city and county leaders have launched a new Violence Reduction Plan to address rising crime rates and gun violence in the community. Devon Jenkins, a Durham native, shared the impact of gun violence in his area, stating, 'We hear gunshots every day.' The initiative began with a meeting at the Durham County Main Library where community members learned about building safer neighborhoods.

Over the next three months, a series of educational sessions will feature national experts and advocates discussing successful violence reduction strategies from jurisdictions such as Tennessee, Missouri, and Massachusetts.

Bishop Herbert Davis, a community advocate, emphasized the importance of open-mindedness in the discussions, urging the community to unite for a common goal. The first phase of this planning process started in December, with learning sessions running until March, community workshops set to begin in February, and a multi-day summit planned for Spring.

Durham County Board Chair Dr. Mike Lee highlighted the opportunity for a framework that incorporates diverse ideas and experiences from residents. This effort is part of a comprehensive approach to fostering a safer environment for Durham residents, as gun violence continues to be a pressing issue in the area, with nearly 400 mass shootings reported across the nation this year, according to the Gun Violence Archive.