GARY | The Gary Peace Initiative Committee will launch an anti-violence campaign in response to violence that has taken place in the city.

The campaign will include a citywide Stand Against Violence unity march, peace assembly and the posting of anti-violence billboards.

The unity march steps off at noon June 14 at 45th Avenue and Broadway and concludes at Ridge Road. Participants will encourage community members to unite and stand against violence in their neighborhoods, according to a news release.

The peace assembly is scheduled for noon June 21 at Marquette Park Pavilion. Featured breakout sessions will include conflict resolution, domestic violence, drug rehabilitation, responsible fatherhood, healthy marriages and a hip-hop culture panel discussion. There also will be food and main stage entertainment.

These events are free and open to the public.

According to the Rev. Sieon Roberts Sr., committee chairman, the organization hopes to make the unity march and peace assembly an annual event.

"We want these events to cause a ripple effect of peaceful change in Gary," he said in the release. "By raising our voice as a community, we can make this city safer. This is only the first step.

The Gary Peace Initiative Committee consists of clergy, community members and business leaders in conjunction with the City of Gary. The entire community is invited to stand against violence and show its support for a peaceful and safe city.

For more information, call Daren Blakely at (219) 201-0102.

- For The Times