Gun violence is plaguing the streets of Chicago. In an effort to stop the violence and build a sense of community, two West Side churches put on a basketball game.
The game, which was held Sunday at Christ the King Jesuit College Prep, 5088 W. Jackson Blvd., featured Greater St John Bible Church of Austin, pastored by notable civil rights leader Rev. Ira Acree, versus New Mt. Pilgrim Church of West Garfield Park, also pastored by a prominent Chicago activist, Pastor Marshall Hatch Sr.
While West Siders put on a show, the event was also meant to encourage young men and women to focus on their education. Thirty students were awarded college scholarships ranging from $500 to $1,000 each.
“We see education and basketball as powerful tools for stemming the tide of gun violence. That’s why we have worked so hard to combine this effort,” Acree said before the game, which New Mt. Pilgrim won 67-64.
“Education is the long-range plan for peace and prosperity. Young men in our community playing basketball may play a vital short term role in calming rage and ultimately reducing the violence,” he said.
avid Cherry, of the Leaders Network, encouraged residents to “come out and support these young men while they bring the community together, encourage education, promote teamwork and share the importance of being productive instead of causing havoc.”
