Transforming Washington DC

The Problem – Rising Violence in Southeast DC

In Southeast DC, growing violence from homicides to assaults and robberies, remains an issue of grave concern. In 2023 alone, as of mid April, 38 juveniles have been struck by gunfire. As of July 5th 2023, the Washington DC Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) said violent crime was up 30% and homicides were up 17% compared to last year.

Tackling this rising violence in Southeast DC necessitates a multi-faceted approach,
encompassing law enforcement efforts, community engagement, and addressing underlying socio-economic disparities and rebuilding trust. At-risk youth from the community also need to be provided with education and mentorship programs that will help steer them away from destructive paths.

Our Work

At the heart of all social change, is the sense of empowerment where individuals and communities are allowed to address and heal from their trauma and thereafter develop a sense of hope and pride that they can develop solutions to their own challenges and create a safer environment where all residents can flourish. With this goal, in March 2023 the National Housing Trust and Neighborhood Associates Corporation have invited us to partner with them as part of their “Bridges to Better” program. This program is being offered to residents of several South East DC communities including Savannah Apartments, Galen Terrace, Bass Circle and Paradise Apartments.

During the planned 16-month intervention entitled “Bridges to Better” participants will also be empowered to teach trauma-informed self-care practices to their neighbors and others in the community. A total of 9 cohorts of about 15 residents each will be taken through our intensive 10-week “Ambassadors of Peace” certification program. As part of this program, they will also be mentored in visioning and implementing a neighborhood project that inspires peace. In addition to this, Cities4Peace has been working in the Anacostia area of Washington D.C. As part of our efforts, we have been invited to host our trauma-informed SKY Mindful Leadership Program for civic leaders, violence interrupters and community leaders working to address the violence in our city.