
Daughters of Zion’s ShelbySAFE Pledge Seeks to Prevent and Curb Violence in Shelby County, Tennessee
By: Staff on June 20, 2024
MEMPHIS, TN — In an effort to address rising violence and foster a safer community, the renowned Daughters of Zion organization has introduced the ShelbySAFE Pledge, a set of conflict resolution strategies aimed at both youth and adults. The initiative encourages residents of Shelby County, Tennessee, to commit to non-violent ways of handling disputes and conflicts.
The ShelbySAFE Pledge includes five key commitments:
- Staying out of other people’s business.
- Talking it out instead of fighting it out.
- Using kind words rather than hurtful words when solving problems with peers.
- Seeking help from teachers or adults if unable to resolve a conflict independently.
- Walking away and taking a deep breath when feeling angry during a disagreement.
Dr. Gerald Kiner, Executive Director of the Daughters of Zion, emphasized the urgency of the initiative, stating, “Violence has reached epidemic proportions in Shelby County, Tennessee. We need pledges from everyone in our community to help make Shelby County safe.”
The ShelbySAFE Pledge is part of a broader campaign to create a culture of peace and mutual respect within the community, aiming to reduce violence and promote healthier ways of resolving conflicts. The pledge is designed to empower individuals with practical strategies for dealing with conflicts and to foster a community-wide commitment to non-violence.
Residents of Shelby County are encouraged to take the pledge and actively participate in making their community safer. To sign up for the ShelbySAFE Pledge, please use the following link: ShelbySAFE Pledge Sign-Up, or call 901-570-3220 for more information.
Dr. Kiner added, “By taking this pledge, each person can contribute to reducing violence and building a more supportive and peaceful community. Every pledge counts, and together, we can make a significant impact.”
The ShelbySAFE Pledge aims to reach every corner of Shelby County, from schools and workplaces to homes and public spaces. It is a call to action for all community members to take responsibility for their actions and to support one another in creating a safer, more harmonious environment.