Photo courtesy Jersey Stands Facebook page

A media alert sent out by Pamela Johnson, Executive Director of the Jersey City Anti-Violence Coalition Movement stated, “The Jersey City community will rally around victims of violence, support families affected, reflect on how it affects our community and leave with an action plan. We have seen how violence plagues our community and leaves destruction in its path. We have seen an increase in violence and it must be addressed by every neighborhood in Jersey City. Children are being shot, young men and women are being gunned down and murdered and it is unacceptable to do nothing. We must stand together and let no Ward separate us. This is a city issue and we have to collectively support one another. Families need our help and our city needs change.”

Various community leaders have banded together to hold the vigil and will speak tonight. Organizations hosting the rally include the Jersey City Anti-Violence Coalition Movement, Bayside Park Neighborhood Association and Jersey City Stands.

Some of the confirmed speakers for tonight’s vigil include:
Rabbi Debra Hachen: Temple Beth-El
Ahmed Shadeed: President, American Muslim Association
Pamela Johnson: Executive Director, Jersey City Anti-Violence Coalition Movement
Amy Albert, Esq.: Haven Adolescent Community Respite Center
Christopher Perez: Bayside Park Neighborhood Association
Hessie Williams: A Mothers Pain
Councilman Chris Gadsden: Ward B
Michael Billy: Community Leader and Founder, Jersey City Stands

The Candlelight Vigil and Rally will be held tonight, April 20 at 6:30 pm on the corner of Van Nostrand Ocean Avenues. For more information and updates, visit the event facebook page.