'No Violence Day in Detroit' tonight will honor violent crime victims

(CBS/AP) DETROIT - The United Communities of America, an organization focused on reducing crime, plans to honor victims of violent crime tonight as a part of "No Violence Day in Detroit," according to the Detroit Free Press.

Most of the people who will be remembered tonight were murdered, said Derek Emanuel, Technical Director of the United Communities of America.

As of August 12th, 220 homicides have been committed in the city. Assault, larceny, rape, and car theft reports have increased in comparison to those that were reported over the same time period last year.

The United Communities of American have already spearheaded one anti-violence event in Detroit, organizing a "Thou Shall Not Kill" motorcade led by hearses throughout crime-ridden neighborhoods in January to call an end to murders in the city.

People attending the event tonight are encouraged to get involved with the community and contribute positively with their energy rather than retaliate, Emanuel says. Resources will also be available to help those who have lost a family member or friend.

Meanwhile, with concern about violent crime in Detroit rising, Detroit Mayor Dave Bing proclaimed the 22nd of each month to become a "No Violence Day in Detroit." Bing is expected to announce the proclamation Wednesday evening on the city's northwest side at the Fellowship Chapel.

The event starts at 6 p.m. at Fellowship Chapel at 7707 W. Outer Drive and is expected to run a few hours.