‘Unity in the community:’ North Philadelphia neighbors plan anti-violence family event

It comes at a time when the city needs more unity.

“I’m glad kids are having fun outside. It’s all about having a positive alternative,” said Michael Robinson, senior pastor of Greater Enon Missionary Baptist Church.

The anti-violence event was made possible thanks to Robinson, the Philadelphia Film Society and other community partners.

“That way you have all these free activities and opportunities. It’s an incentive for people to get out and enjoy themselves and inspire other community leaders to do the same in their neighborhoods,” Robinson said.

Organizers hope community leaders in other neighborhoods will see this and plan events where they live.

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“We hear about violence in Philadelphia all the time, but what we don’t hear is how wonderful the relationship is between neighbors,” said Madeline Charne, director of education at the Philadelphia Film Society.
Organizers say it will take a concerted effort to see change.

“There wouldn’t be as much violence, I think, as the fact that they’re busy, kids can’t get bored and some can’t afford to go to camp,” he told North’s Gail Carmack-Nlachlan -Philadelphia.

The anti-violence event comes after a particularly violent week in the city.

The Philly Film Society is encouraging community leaders to get in touch because they’re helping to plan a movie for block night.

Meanwhile, the new curfew is set to help curb violence in the city. All Philadelphia teens ages 14-17 are now required to be inside by 10pm unless accompanied by a legal guardian.