Organization of the NorthEast Launches CeaseFire at Press Conference

I had the pleasure to attend Organization of the NorthEast’s (ONE) March 7, press conference.  The conference, held at Truman’s front lobby, attracted more than 40 people including public officials and business leaders.

ONE, a 37-year-old nonprofit, launched CeaseFire, a counseling and conflict resolution program, in an effort to address violent crimes in Uptown.

ONE's Board President Dominic Grassi speaks to the press

“ONE is a mixed income, multigenerational, and diverse organization and we are here to fight crime and gun violence.” Board President Dominic Grassi said.

Alderman Helen Schiller, who also spoke at the event, supported ONE because “CeaseFire’s proactive approach to curb shooting and murder,” is likelier to prevent crime than “the reactive responsibility of the police.” Schiller reiterated her support for ONE’s “comprehensively involved, preventive measure,” which she also described as “strong antiviolence effort.”

Outgoing 46th Ward Alderman, Helen Schiller, makes a statement of support about ONE's CeaseFire Program

Parent Georgina and student Tony Sandifer of Goudy Elementary School, both Uptown residents, testified to the many instances when gangs broke into their high-rise, beat residents or vandalized properties in their backyard.

Parent Georgina and student Tony Sandifer testify at the press conference

Cook County Commissioner, Bridget Gainer, spoke about the “proven track record” of CeaseFire and how it reduced crime by 30 per cent last year. Gainer said, “CeaseFire avails resources to address the root causes of violence which are inequality and economic deprivation.”

Other speakers including Alyssa Cutler of Uptown Chamber of Commerce asked everyone who has come “to help build sustainable effort,” to fight gang activity in Uptown while Grassi asked those who are not members of ONE to “join  in the commitment to improve our neighborhood, city and country.”

For related articles, please check out: http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2011-02-22/news/ct-x-c-uptown-violence-0223-20110223-64_1_gang-violence-fatal-shooting-rival-gang-member