Another year of violent reminders
Anti-crime activists issue plea to cops, citizens
Murder victims’ names ring out
The Times-Picayune
Saturday, January 12, 2008
By Laura Maggi
Beginning and ending with a solemn reading of the names of the more than 200 people killed in New Orleans since thousands of citizens took to the streets last year, anti-crime activists asked for more action from city leaders and called on average citizens to help stem the violence on the streets.
Several relatives of murder victims joined the crowd of at least 50 people who attended the news conference and memorial on the steps of City Hall, along with City Councilman James Carter, Police Superintendent Warren Riley and several members of Riley’s command staff. Mayor Ray Nagin did not attend, nor did the majority of the City Council.
“It’s too late for these victims,” said Nakita Shavers, 20, the sister of slain musician Dinerral Shavers. “It’s not too late for our city.” After her brother’s death in December 2006, Shavers joined the group Silence is Violence to urge more people to become involved in anti-crime activities.
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