Editorial: It’s time to stop the nonsense violence

When holidays roll around on our calendar, they usually are to give us a day off or to celebrate with family and friends. Unfortunately, in some cases, it can be an experience that we never want to relive.

The idea of celebrating responsibly has reached a point that has turned tragic on far too many occasions. It is unfortunately coming to a point where when we step out for a mild celebration with family or friends, it turns into a game of survival and if we will ever see that loved one again.

There will always be cases where we can’t control the circumstances of what takes place. However, there are times when we can, and I am here to talk about that and celebrating responsibly.

This past weekend, there was a death in nearby Richmond. The result was the death of nine-year old Markiya Dickson. While she was at the cookout, gunshots rang from the other side of the park, resulting in her death.

Let’s be clear. This violence has gotten to the point where it’s complete and utter nonsense. It’s not just this shooting, but all the shootings, robberies, and so forth. The more difficult thing to comprehend is why somebody would go to the need to use a weapon in such a way. Holidays are meant to be times of celebration, which this young girl was. Now, instead of getting ready to return to school, her family is preparing to celebrate her life.

It’s gotten to the point where I decided to speak up on the issue. Simply put, if we can prevent somebody’s death, then it needs to be done together. If somebody is thinking about committing suicide, a conversation with them to see their perspective can change a lot. Inviting this person to an event can open up doors and provide them another outlook of life. Another example is a person drinking an alcoholic beverage. If you know that person is going to drink, be or find a designated driver. There are more than enough services to provide a person a ride home. Nobody wants to receive that call that a family member was killed due to a drunk driver.

Neighborhood watches and common sense can be the key to being safe. If there is an event that you were invited to and you don’t know much about the people or the location, it may be best to stay away, no matter who invited you. If you are at home, keep your doors locked both of your house and your vehicles. These are just a few preventive measures.

In conclusion, we may not be responsible for the incidents that occur, but we can be responsible for methods of prevention. Knowledge, power, and unity are the strengths of our generation. We all have access to information to get us to this point. It is how we apply it that will make the difference in how we live as one united group of people.