Dr. Dionne Edison (far right) attended the event to give each child a crocheted hat. Dr. Edison regularly creates crocheted items, including hats, blankets, and dolls.

By Maya Quinn, editor

On October 12th, Branch Heights Housing Authority held a program for local youth to discuss the importance of nonviolence. Recent events, such as the Branch Heights shooting in September, prompted Director Anita Lewis to organize an event to teach youth to value themselves and those around them. The event aimed to discuss the root causes of youth violence and encourage adults to model positive conflict resolution.

Greene County has a long history of advocating for justice through nonviolent protest. Historic leaders such as Reverend William McKinley Branch, the first black probate judge since Reconstruction, and Thomas Gilmoore, the Sheriff Without a Gun, ran on a platform that promoted loving one’s enemy and civil discourse. Current pastors and judges in Greene County still echo their message.

Carolyn Branch, Board member of Greene County Housing Authority, Pastor Kelvin Jones from First Baptist Church in Eutaw, Youth Pastor Christopher Davis from United in Love Ministries in Huntsville, Greene County District Judge-Elect Tonjula Carey, and many others came to offer such messages and support to those gathered.

“Violence leaves wounds far beyond the moment it happens,” cautioned Pastor Davis. He told students that taking a step away and asking for help is a sign of true strength. He encouraged students to process their emotions, even by crying if they must, before they cause irreversible harm. He also told adults that they have to give the youth people they can trust. 

Tonjula Carey stated that the adults in the community must create spaces where accountability is meaningful, and adults advise without judgment. “We must invest in our youth before a crisis,” she asserted. “It should be a daily practice to hold children accountable, but do not condemn them.” 

The event concluded with time for the youth to play basketball in the gym. Dr Dionne Edison also attended the event to give out handmade crocheted hats to all youth present.