Mayor Emanuel Calls On Churches To Join Anti-Violence Initiative
(CBS) -- Mayor Rahm Emanuel is backing a new anti-violence initiative started at a West Side church and he's prodding other churches to get involved, as well, reports WBBM's Mike Krauser.
The Preservation of Life campaign was started at the People's Church of the Harvest at Central Park Boulevard and 5th Avenue by Pastor Michael Eaddy.
"There will be a blanket over our communities covering us," Eaddy said.
The campaign includes red door hangers, outreach to those on both ends of violence, efforts to tighten gun laws and to get more people working.
"In my humble opinion, we have more than just the gun problem in this generation, we are dealing with a heart problem," said Pastor Jaime Navarro of New Life Covenant Church Southwest Campus.
"No pastor of any faith can walk away from their role in the community and they must embrace this campaign," said Mayor Emanuel.
Speaking on an alter surrounded by elected officials, police, business people and clergy, he said everyone has to play a role.