At the ESSENCE Festival 2025, Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott emphasizes that gun violence should be treated as a public health crisis. He highlights Baltimore’s $50 million investment in community violence intervention, explaining that “we pay people who used to shoot people to go and interrupt that violence themselves,” showcasing an innovative approach to reducing crime through community engagement.
The panel also features insights from various leaders, including Congresswoman LaMonica McIver and forensic pathologist Dr. Roger Mitchell, each stressing the need for systemic change. Mitchell points out that neglect within the prison system exacerbates health issues, while Adams shares poignant stories from his own experience as a former inmate. Their collective call for action underscores the significance of a community-based response to violence and the urgent need for comprehensive reform in the criminal justice system.
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