We the people declare a state of emergency due to the overwhelming impact of Gang violence, mental health issues, drug abuse, and crime in our community.  Our basic human right of safety and liberty is not fulfilled in our community.

We understand that to fix Rochester's issues we must honor ourselves and take accountability for our actions. 

We the people have become desensitized and unbothered by the senseless crime and poverty that is plaguing our community. We the people have allowed years of trauma to shape our mindset to believe that Systemic institutions are the answer to these problems. It is our responsibility to RESPOND, RECOVER, and REPAIR our city. From the vision of the Greater Rochester Black Agenda Group, “We, and only we, are the architects of our destiny." We will use our creativity, to strengthen, and sustain a healthy and successful black vibrant community on this day, January 19th, 2023.

WE THE PEOPLE DEMAND JUSTICE FOR OUR YOUTH SUFFERING FROM THE REPEATED CRIMES, NOW REACHINg OUR SCHOOL DOOR STEPS AND HALLS! 

WE DEMAND:   

• The implementation of Pathways to Peace into our schools under the Leadership of our Brother Anthony Hall. Pathways to Peace is a prevention and intervention program that specializes in high quality safety. We believe law enforcement should not be the only response to this matter.  
•  Immediate action from all community members that can provide aid to our youth.  
• Immediate access by mental health workers, and social workers, through placement at Franklin to handle the traumatic response to recent events.
•  Local and State officials bring justice to the victims within our community, by apprehending the suspect immediately.
• The Rochester City School District’s board to immediately provided Transparency, on the issue at Franklin, and a plan of action to prevent such events from occurring on all RCSD school properties in the future without added police presence.
•  The cooperation of local businesses prohibiting students to smoke weed on their premises before or after school. 

WE DEMAND

• The reimplementation of the “Rules of the community.”
  Respectfully protect the babies, women, and elders. They are not targets.
• Schools, parks, rec centers, and community centers are safe zones.
• Respect the Entertainment going on at Clubs. NO GUNS, or Weapons, keep them at home or in your vehicles.