Juneteenth Celebrations Spark Commitment to Non-Violence in Memphis: 157 Sign Daughters of Zion’s ShelbySAFE Pledge in 24 Hours

By: Staff on June 20, 2024

MEMPHIS, TN —— In the heart of Memphis, within a whirlwind Juneteenth celebration, the Daughters of Zion’s Shelby SAFE program made a profound impact, enrolling 157 participants to take the Shelby SAFE pledge. Across six events, the Shelby SAFE community connectors engaged with the community on the shared vision of a secure Memphis and Shelby County.

From the historic National Civil Rights Museum to the vibrant Benjamin Hooks Job Corps, and everything in between, the Shelby SAFE community connector team not only attended but actively participated in these crucial community gatherings within a jam-packed 24-hour period from June 19 to June 20, 2024.

The talented and passionate Ekpe Abioto, the Shelby SAFE cultural performance director and author of “Don’t Touch A Gun,” dazzled audiences with performances at key locations like Memphis Merit Academy, Slave Haven Underground Railroad, and The Boys & Girls Club at LaRose Elementary, where numerous individuals eagerly signed up for the program.

In response to the escalating need for safety and unity in the community, the highly esteemed Daughters of Zion organization unveiled the ShelbySAFE Pledge, a vital set of conflict resolution strategies aimed at fostering peace among youth and adults alike. This initiative challenges Shelby County residents to embrace non-violent approaches in navigating disputes and disagreements, setting the stage for a more harmonious environment.

Sentera Johnson, a dedicated Shelby SAFE Community Connector, shared the overwhelming response from the community, highlighting the relief felt by many at the sight of individuals actively advocating for peace and security on their streets.

Another connector, Cynthia Washington, recounted a moving interaction with a young man named Wesley at the Job Corps, expressing astonishment that someone finally cared to engage youth in conversations about violence prevention and community safety.

Meanwhile, Brenda Ford, the Coordinator Specialist at the Benjamin Hooks Job Corps, lauded the positive impact of Shelby SAFE’s mentorship efforts on the kids, emphasizing the crucial need for such guidance in nurturing the next generation.

The ShelbySAFE Pledge stands as a cornerstone of a larger movement towards a more peaceful and respectful community, aiming to curb violence and promote healthier conflict resolution strategies. By empowering individuals with practical tools for addressing conflicts and fostering a collective commitment to non-violence, this initiative seeks to transform Shelby County into a safer and more cohesive place for all.

Residents are urged to join this transformative movement by taking the ShelbySAFE Pledge and actively contributing to the quest for a safer community. For those willing to take a stand for peace, sign up for the pledge through the following link: ShelbySAFE Pledge Sign-Up, or contact 901-570-3220 for more details.