DETROIT – More than 30 community organizations and state and federal law enforcement agencies participated in the first Peacenic held at O’Hair Park on Saturday, July 9 from 11-2.
The event was part of the Safe Summer Streets Initiative, where federal law enforcement agencies including the United States Attorney’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Bureau of Alcohol , Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) partnered this summer with the City of Detroit, the Detroit Police Department and the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office to strategically focus resources on the most dangerous neighborhoods in the city, which are two sections in the city’s Precinct 8 and two sections in Precinct 9. The strategy is designed to significantly reduce violence by targeting those who are committing violence and to return these neighborhoods to the majority of residents who want peace The City of Detroit pledged to address the blight, ensure access to city services, and replenish community resources in neighborhoods targeted for enforcement. The partners also agreed to hold community engagement events, Peacenics, where residents can have fun, engage with law enforcement and get resources to improve the quality of their lives.
Saturday’s Peacenic held at O’Hair Park in the 8th Precinct was the first of these community engagement events. It featured vendors offering a variety of resources, including job training, literacy programs, mental health and medical screenings, public service assistance, educational and vocational opportunities, tutoring and career development programs, and more. Several law enforcement agencies were also present to engage with the community and recruit to fill vacancies in their organizations. The event also featured a panel discussion of returning citizens who discussed how they can work together to reduce violence in their communities. In addition to the resources, there were bounce houses, face painting, cookie decorating and a free throw tournament for kids. Hooper of the Detroit Pistons also made an appearance and took pictures with those in attendance. Adults could also join in the fun with Hustle Dance classes, chess games and a spades tournament. Pizza, hot dogs, sliders and ice cream were also available for Peacenic residents.
Gail Tubbs, president of the O’Hair Park Neighborhood Association, said: “The message of unity was on full display last Saturday, July 9 at O’Hair Park. The community came together with agencies of law enforcement to create a culture of peace in our neighborhoods and in the city of Detroit.”
Alvin R. Stokes, President of Community Relations for the City’s Citizens Police, stated, “I would like to take this opportunity to thank United States Attorney Ms. Dawn Ison and her team for the great event which was held on July 9, 2022 at O’ Parc de pél in the 8th Ward. With the help of several agencies, everyone had a great time. I applaud the lawyer and his team for showing the community the love and support we need. It’s great to see the community and other agencies come together for a good cause. I’d love to see more.”
“Peacenic was an empowering day filled with life-saving resources. Free food, job opportunities, and lots of family-friendly activities. I can’t wait for the next one,” said Darryl Woods, Sr., President and CEO of Fighting the Good Fight.
The second Peacenic will be held on July 17, 2022, from 11-4 at Heilmann Park, which is located in Precinct 9 and will feature most of the same community and police partners. The Peacenic is designed for residents of Precinct 9. Media are welcome to attend the event and should contact Gina Balaya at the email address above or directly at (313)226-9758.
Participating organizations
Bates Academy • Brilliant Detroit • Detroit at Work • Detroit Chess Club • Detroit Chess Club • Detroit Health Department • Detroit Public Schools Community District • Detroit Reconnect • Detroit Training Center • Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network • Downtown Boxing Gym • Drug Enforcement Administration • Goodwill Industries • Homeland Security • I Teach Chess • Matrix Human Services • Michigan Army National Guard • Michigan Department of Corrections • Michigan Secretary of State • Michigan State Police • Neighborhood Association of O’ Hair Park • Clean Slate Project • Pure Heart Foundation • Team Wellness Center • 27th Letter Books • U.S. Marshal Services • Wayne County Community College District • Wayne County Sheriff’s Department • Wayne Metro Community Action Agency • Youth construction
